02072454429

I don't know of this individual but the weblink provided refers to an organization called Feifa

http://www.feifa.eu/Pages/default.aspx

The interesting part of this homepage is the statement that members are admitted after vigorous vetting.

Who are Feifa:
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110227013546AAVv7Vh

The Costa del Sol Action Group says:
"FEIFA are currently promoting a new Expat Financial Forum, to which they say their members will answer questions from the general public. However, this Federation's founders operated as unregulated Spanish Financial Advisers, and among the ones that we had the most complaints about. In our opinion that this organisation should be avoided. Read more..."
http://www.costa-action.co.uk/

Nonsense.     It is more likely to be FIFA the usual bunch of ignorant footballers who can neither spell nor speak the own language language.

You mean " their own language" .

Do Feifa vet the firms or the individuals? Can't tell from the website. If this is a sort of club then I guess it would be up to the individual firms to decide who they employ. Perhaps a little unfair to judge all the others who may be half decent advisers.

There seem to be issues in Spain,but I cannot find anything outside of Spain.

23 Feb 2013's MoneyBox BBC Radio 4 Programme continued to discuss the great Pension Liberation Scam with the Minister responsible for pensions, Steve Webb. Listen to the grilling Webb gets and how little the government is doing despite the £4 million a week being scammed.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01qspjg PENSION UNLOCKING
For the third week we return to the growing crime of persuading people to transfer their pension savings into recently registered pension schemes and taking huge fees for illegally letting them have some of their money back. This week - the legal aspects. Is the law adequate to help trustees stop the transfer when they suspect a scam? And if not, will the Government pass new laws to protect desperate people from the crooks - and themselves? We speak to a pensions lawyer and Pensions Minister Steve Webb.

PDF Tapescript:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/shared/spl/hi/program ... x_23_feb_13.pdf

MP3 Audio:
http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/mo ... 30223-1204a.mp3

Related Links:
Action Fraud: Reporting Pension Liberation Scams:  www.actionfraud.police.uk
The FSA: Consumers warned over pension liberation schemes www.fsa.gov.uk
The Pensions Regulator: Pension liberation fraud www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk
The Pension Advisory Service: Pension liberation plans www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk
The Money Advice Service: Pensions: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
HMRC www.hmrc.gov.uk/pensionschemes/pen-liberation.htm

MoneyBox E-mail your questions www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/features/money-box/contact/ or call 03700 100 444 from 1pm to 3.30pm on Wednesday.

Very interesting. Anyone know whether the BBC plans to cover the issue of people being persuaded into costly offshore "pension schemes" beyond the reach of the FSA or other regulators? They touched on it in Panorama "Where did my pension go?" in 2010 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rS36OlVCY5s), but now appear to consider the company whose methods they partially revealed in that programme as a source of financial expertise. Devere Group representatives have been interviewed on six separate occasions by the BBC in the past few months (http://www.youtube.com/user/deveregroupchannel).

That must say something about current standards of journalism at the BBC.

Recent Telegraph article on how Devere Group targets British expats on LinkedIn: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfi ... l-networks.html

Some of the BBC's journalists are better than others and in my opinion Radio 4 Money Box's Paul Lewis is one of the better ones and a real terrier. You could contact him via http://www.paullewis.co.uk and outline your concerns about Devere and pensions. Lots of expats listen to Radio 4

You could also ask your MP to raise a question in the Commons www.writetothem.com

And contact the Minister responsible for pensions Steve Webb to ask why Devere are allowed to promote dodgy pension schemes via .co.uk websites.

Steve Webb
Department for Work and Pensions
Caxton House
Tothill Street
London
SW1H 9DA

Tel: 020 7340 4000
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk
Email: ministers@dwp.gsi.gov.uk


Westminster
House of Commons,
London,
SW1A 0AA

Tel: 020 7219 4378
Email: webbs@parliament.uk


Constituency
Poole Court,
Poole Court Drive,
Yate, Bristol ,
BS37 5PP

Tel: 01454 322100
Fax: 01454 866515
Email: steve@stevewebb.org.uk

Ha ha! Do they sell Winalot and Boneos in Moscow?

The old boys getting back together to spitroast some clients, surprised that has happened.

Ah QROPS, main party to blame here is HMRC for not actually controlling who can administer and what the rules actually were back in 2006 and then going for Pantera clients without mercy.

I am involved in investigation into a major UK mis sell of an occupational QROPS currently which frankly beggars belief.

My view is QROPS have a place but really just before you know where you are going to retire and in which offshore location, otherwise leave well alone.

If you are UK res and intend to stay that way, really it is not meant for you and if you enter a scheme which becomes overturned you will potentially be liable for a 40 to 55% unauthorised payment charge with at this stage minimal redress.

The fees in the case I am working on are out of this world and the ability to change trustees and juristictions and holding banks absolutely alarming.

The sale of offshore products in my view generally is very poor and QROPS potentially a scandel.

Can HMRC really be expected to keep pace with all the offshore scammers offering QROPS scams? HMRC includes plenty of warnings about QROPS in the first page of its QROPS list (http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/pensionschemes/qrops.pdf).
1) the schemes on the list notify HMRC that they qualify, not the other way around:
"This list is based on information provided to HMRC by non-UK schemes when they notify HMRC they meet the conditions to be a QROPS."
2) schemes on the list are not approved by HMRC:
"The list is not to be taken as a recommendation for a particular scheme or product. Nor should it be taken that any scheme featured on the list is approved or backed by HMRC."
3) the list is not complete:
"Absence of a scheme name from the list should not be seen as a statement of scheme status."
4) schemes on the list must continue to check that they meet the conditions and inform HMRC:
"Pension schemes also have 30 days to inform HMRC they no longer meet the conditions to be a QROPS and that they need to come off the list. The conditions have changed over time so schemes need to ensure that they continue to meet the conditions to be a QROPS."

In many cases, QROPS seems to be a byword for a scam. Would be interesting to know how many QROPS products are with companies based in jurisdictions which offers high standards of protection to investors not living in that jurisdiction. Difficult to  believe that companies based in scammers' paradises such as Gibraltar, BVI, Seychelles, etc. would offer that kind of protection.

We also encourage you to visit and comment in our company blog, which features posts related to business strategy,  technology, marketing, and more.

I couldn't agree more. But then a fool is easily parted with his money.
www.google.co.uk/search?q=hmrc+QROPS+fraud

I enjoy your posts. You should have a chat with Mark Jenner the forensic accountant who has investigated a number of fraudulent schemes

There are beautiful quotes on here!

All pretty far points that I agree with, except .......... when the changes came in, in 2006 HMRC relied on providers to work within a "concept" if they at that time had put it into legislation properly then it would have been clear all round, they didn't and as such the abuse, loop holing etc. started. Frankly they remain unclear about the rules to this day as per the only test case against ultimately Credit Suisse.

We are working with the UK's leading Counsel on this and frankly it is still very cloudy and there are further actions that are likely to happen so further changes may be made.

Clear legal comment has been made about the lack of HMRC clarity even when their opinion was sought. In most other "developed" countries the rules are clear in advance.

Green Bacon, thank you for your comment, I try to be balanced about a number of issues and points raised. That is an interesting point you will make and may be useful thank you.

The problem with loop holers and fraudsters in my ow Old Bloke view is that generally they get away with it and usually the money is well gone. If caught as usually the power that be, police, trading standards, regulators and Uncle Tom Cobley and all are so stupid and slow and display very little interest, the costs of legal action and end outcome are usually not worthwhile.

I think that in truth we get shafters and shaftees if you follow my drift and then a mixture of good guys that generally are not as slick as the Shafters and are left with a pile of [***] to pick up and a client that continues to be disgruntled.

Interestingly the general theme of this 29 pages of comments are outfits that just want to generate a lot of cash and overall are not all that concerned how it is done, but are bright enough to stay legal and be a good few steps ahead!

A 2011 press release from Devere showing that it works closely with its product providers:
http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Yet+Another+Suc ... ce.-a0267108510

“The 2011 adviser conference of the Western Europe branch of The deVere Group, the world's largest independent financial consultancy, that took place in Marbella, Spain last weekend, was indeed another great success

BIRKIRKARA, Malta, Sept. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The event was spread out between the 1st and the 3rd of September and was aimed at providing Western Europe-based Financial Advisers with the latest financial planning knowledge, in order to help them continue providing the best possible financial advice to the deVere client.

The now-prestigious event included motivational talks; workshops from deVere's main partners including Close, JP Morgan Asset Management, Morgan Stanley, Generali International, Skandia International, Friends Provident Friends, Prudential International and Sovereign; and also team-building exercises.

Mike Coady, the deVere Group's Regional Director for Western Europe, commented, "We couldn't be happier with the outcome of this year's annual advisers' conference in Marbella. Everyone that attended would agree that it was a fantastic conference, of which I am sure that our advisers will immensely benefit. This therefore continues to showcase our focus on providing the best quality advice with a service culture that is second to none."

Clarendon Distribution CEO Anthony Stack said, "This was by far the best event of this kind that I have attended and was a very positive reflection on the professionalism and commitment of Mr. Coady and his team. I very much look forward to the next event and the continued success of the region."

David Matthews, Regional Manager of Skandia International, said, "Professional, motivational, inspirational. Impressive in the extreme! Simply the most compelling, informative and well-organised Advisers' Conference I have been lucky enough to be involved in."

Robin Fielder, Managing Director of Leadership Development, commented, "What a great conference! Congratulations! Loved the atmosphere, buzz and high level of positivity generated by Mr. Coady and his team."

Close Managing Director, Adrian Flambard, said, "It was quite simply one of the very best conferences I have ever attended. This is in respect of many things including organisation, content, quality of presenters and Mr. Coady's input which was considerable."

Jason Gaines, International Business Development Manager at Close Asset Management, added, "The more I see of deVere Western Europe the more I can see a growing business encouraging the right behaviours in their consultants. I have no doubt at all that it will not be too long before the region is the highest producing in the company."

Head of UK Academy Sales at JP Morgan Asset Management, Stuart G Podmore, commented, "The annual Western European deVere Group conference was outstanding. The audience was eager to learn, to share knowledge, the attitude was very positive and it was fun presenting to clients who want to develop their skills. We look forward to future business with the deVere Group."

Generali International Sales Manager for Europe, Anita Teistela, added, "Congratulations on the excellent conference! It is always very helpful to catch all the consultants in one event and have an opportunity to discuss various issues and in general strengthen the relationships. I thought the event was very well organised with good balance and an interesting programme."

Barry Honeyman, International Account Manager at Prudential international, commented, "I found the content very well structured and some of the sessions well executed. I was also impressed by the ambition and culture at deVere."

Body language expert, Dr Peter Collett, commented, "Congratulations to this year's organisers on a first-class convention. The talks I listened to were all highly imaginative, entertaining and inspiring. As one of the speakers I was delighted to encounter such an appreciative audience and to meet so many engaging and perceptive delegates. All round a truly memorable event."

Friends Provident Global Partnerships Director, Peter Drummond, added, "A very well planned and executed conference, with positive input from professionals to professionals."

Justin Barrett from Boston Funds Direct said, "I was hugely impressed from start to finish - the content of the slides, the interaction that Mike Coady and Doug Tucker shared and of course the usual high level motivation that deVere CEO Nigel Green always brings to such occasions."

Skandia International Head of Sales Europe, David Denton, commented, "An impressive and inspiring event all round. It's clear that the presentations, both those made by deVere and the product providers in attendance, combined to provide invaluable practical assistance and expert knowledge to the assembled sales teams."

Austin Blair, Director, Providence Life Limited, said, "The deVere Western Europe conference was a fantastic opportunity to get access to an amazing group of professional advisors. The enthusiasm and attentiveness of the delegates was a testimony to their professionalism and commitment. The event was superbly organised and gave each of the sponsors sufficient time to present to the delegates, but also a great deal of opportunity to meet and talk during the breaks and evening events. Hats off to Mike Coady, Doug Tucker and Felicity Rice for organising a stimulating and valuable 3 days, I am sure all of the delegates will go back to work more knowledgeable, more motivated and more inspired."

Sovereign Business Development Manager, Richard Chandler, commented, "Attending the deVere Adviser Conference was a highly informative and beneficial experience for all present. Sovereign makes great efforts to ensure that the quality, thoroughness, and security of the pension products we supply is second to none and to have that supported by deVere Group at all levels demonstrates their understanding and desire to meet their clients' needs. The event was organised superbly and the range of speakers and quality of information exchanged is testament to the emphasis the Firm has on the professionalism of their Advisers."

About The deVere Group

The deVere Group is the world's largest independent international financial consultancy group. International investors and expatriates employ us to find financial services products that suit their medium to long term requirements for investments, savings and pensions. With in excess of US$8 billion of funds under administration and management, deVere has more than sixty thousand clients in over a hundred countries. Our independence and ability to offer financial products that are tailor-made to fit an individual's needs are behind our success.

Website: http://www.devere-group.com 

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE deVere Group”

"A fool is easily parted from his money" is a con artist's get-out clause and a get-out clause for anyone who thinks they're too smart to be conned, i.e. who is a con victim in waiting. Thinking you're smarter than con victims or too smart to be conned means you are not as smart as you think.

"Schreiber Associates International" (SAINT) (http://s-aint.com/) is operated by a former partner at Devere (http://www.plaxo.com/directory/profile/60130406818/b24fe2aa/Andrew/Schreiber). According to the website, which refers to “our financial advisors/wealth managers”, it is a “group of several organisations, each of which is a separate legal entity registered in the relevant jurisdictions in which it operates” (http://s-aint.com/) with "an extensive network of affiliates and profesionals" (https://s-aint.com/about-us/customer-charter/).

1. (http://www.companieshouse.gov.uk/)
SCHREIBER ASSOCIATES INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
c/o GARNER ASSOCIATES LLP
NORTHWOOD HOUSE
138 BROMHAM ROAD
BEDFORD
UNITED KINGDOM
MK40 2QW
Company No. 07561199
Date of Incorporation: 11/03/2011
Nature of Business (SIC): 64999 - Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified

2. UK directorcheck entry: http://company-director-check.co.uk/director/915944719 (property purchase price in November 2010 http://www.rightmove.co.uk/house-prices/detai ... tChangeCriteria)
Previous directorships for dissolved companies called "London Sailing Clubs Limited" (Company No. 04523963; Nature of Business:
None Supplied) and "Headway UK Limited" (Company No. 04351955; Nature of Business: 7484 - Other business activities, 8042 - Adult and other education): http://company-director-check.co.uk/director/907990635

3. Company name/director’s name not on FSA register (http://www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do)

4. Swiss business register: individual registration for advice on international insurance products and derived operations (http://www.rc2.vd.ch/registres/hrcintapp-pub/ ... &ofrcLanguage=4)

5. According to the website (http://s-aint.com/, registered by the director of the UK company: http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/results.jsp?domain=s-aint.com), the address is "Schreiber Associates International, 4th Floor, Rue Du Rhone 1204, Geneva, Switzerland, +41 (0) 22 5483712, info@s-aint.com". This gives the Geneva post code 1204 as the house number. According to another page (http://s-aint.com/store/files/NEWSLETTER_Q3-2012.pdf), the address is "14 Rue du Rhone, 1204 Geneva", i.e. the location of Regus rented office space (http://www.regus.com/locations/office-space/geneva-rue-du-rhone).

6. Integrity:
"Schreiber Associates International, headed by Andrew Schreiber, is built on strong foundations of integrity, a premier service, first-class expertise and knowledge." (https://s-aint.com/about-us/)
"Top qualities: Good Value, High Integrity, Creative...Top qualities: Expert, Good Value, High Integrity...Top qualities: Personable, Good Value, High Integrity...Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity" (https://s-aint.com/about-us/testimonials/)
"Schreiber Associates International prides itself on the quality and strength of its client relationships forged over many years and built on integrity and trust. (https://s-aint.com/about-us/customer-charter/)

QROPS:
"...a new breed of low cost QROP has arrived, with limitations on investment opportunities, but providing the ability to establish a QROP with a transfer as low as £20,000…. For a full evaluation, and explanation of the benefits of a QROP contact us without delay and without obligation." (http://s-aint.com/store/files/NEWSLETTER_Q3-2012.pdf)
"if you are an expatriate if you have not arranged a QROPS yet, you should perhaps revisit what a QROPS offer" (http://s-aint.com/store/files/Q4-2012.pdf)
"Recent figures provide yet more support for expatriate clients to consider a QROPS transfer." (https://s-aint.com/news/entry/108)

Investment fraud:
"It is perhaps surprising how many people still get caught out by investment fraud. Regulation has tightened considerably over the last decade or two, depending upon which country you live in, but unfortunately this is not enough to stop some investors losing money to unauthorised sales people." (http://s-aint.com/store/files/NEWSLETTER_Q3-2012.pdf)