Failed Pension Provider 'Guinness Mahon'

Pensions

Welcome to CP Financial Claims website. We have a range of articles dedicated to providing explanations, facts and solutions to significant financial events surrounding pensions. Let’s explore the aftermath. In this edition, we delve into the unfortunate case of Guinness Mahon, a self-invested personal pension (SIPP) provider that experienced a significant downfall.

We'll examine the reasons behind its failure, the impact on investors, and the subsequent compensation claims. Let's uncover the details surrounding this failed pension provider.

Understanding SIPPs and Failed Pension Providers

A self-invested personal pension (SIPP) is a type of pension scheme that allows individuals to have greater flexibility and control over their retirement savings. With a SIPP, investors can choose from a wide range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, property, and more. This flexibility is appealing to many individuals who want to have a more active role in managing their pension funds.

However, it is important to note that not all pension providers offering SIPPs are reliable or trustworthy. Some pension providers may face financial difficulties or fail to meet their obligations towards investors, putting their retirement savings at risk. Guinness Mahon is a prime example of a failed pension provider that has left many individuals in a precarious financial situation.

When a pension provider fails, it can have severe consequences for investors. Their pension funds may be mismanaged, invested in high-risk or non-standard investments, or even become illiquid, making it impossible for investors to access their funds when needed. This can have a devastating impact on individuals who were relying on their pension savings for a secure retirement.

Guinness Mahon's status as a failed pension provider serves as a cautionary tale for investors. It highlights the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and choosing a reputable and financially stable pension provider.

Individuals who have been affected by Guinness Mahon’s failure or any other failed pension provider should explore their options for seeking compensation, you can do that by sending us an email, or filling out the contact form at the bottom of this website. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) may provide a lifeline for those who have suffered financial losses due to the actions or negligence of failed pension providers. By pursuing a compensation claim, affected individuals can aim to recover their losses and regain some financial stability for their retirement.

Unraveling the Mis-Sold SIPP

Guinness Mahon became entangled in the mis-sold SIPP failures in 2016. Their involvement with BankHouse, Financial Page, and Henderson Carter led to significant repercussions.

Additionally, the company faced charges for introducing unregulated investments to generate more business. By February 2020, the Guinness Mahon Trust Corporation was forced into administration, potentially facing liabilities of up to £8.5 million.

The FSCS SIPP Pay Outs

In April 2021, the FSCS reported receiving a total of 1,149 claims against Guinness Mahon Trust Corporation. Out of these claims, 718 have resulted in compensation payouts, highlighting the magnitude of the mis-selling issue. The FSCS reported paying out a staggering £22.5 million to compensate 718 claims against Guinness Mahon, the embattled SIPP provider.

The claims primarily revolved around SIPP transfers and the subsequent placement of pension funds into high-risk, non-standard investments.

Failed Pension Provider: Guinness Mahon's Troubles

Guinness Mahon faced severe issues when it was discovered that independent financial advisors (IFAs) had recommended their clients to transfer existing pensions into Guinness Mahon SIPPs. Unfortunately, these transfers led to customers' pension funds being invested in high-risk, illiquid investments. Consequently, the provider defaulted with the FSCS in October 2020.

Joint Administration and Sale

Adam Stephens and Nick Myers of Smith & Williamson were appointed as joint administrators of Guinness Mahon Trust Corporation Limited in February 2020. Shortly after their appointment, the SIPP business and certain assets were sold to Hartley Pensions for an undisclosed sum. However, the legal entity Guinness Mahon Trust Corporation Limited remains in administration.

Rising Industry Levy and Compensation Pay-outs

The fallout from failed pension providers has resulted in a substantial increase in the industry levy. The total levy for 2021/21 was expected to reach £1 billion, marking a 48% rise from the previous year. Advice firms are forecasted to contribute £240 million, similar to the previous year, due to the funding limits being breached for the second consecutive year.

Compensation pay-outs stemming from the failure of other firms like Greyfriars Asset Management and Pointon York have also impacted the FSCS.

Relationship with Wellington Court Financial Services

Guinness Mahon had ties with IFA Wellington Court Financial Services. Their association played a role in the advice given to clients, leading to the recommendation of Guinness Mahon SIPPs. The interconnection between the two entities further exacerbated the situation for investors affected by the failed pension provider.

Guinness Mahon is also linked to the following financial advisors: Fiducia Wealth Solutions Ltd and Blackstar Wealth Management.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

If you were involved in a mis-sold pension or investment, various factors could have contributed to your situation, including poor advice, inadequate risk disclosure, or a lack of essential information for making an informed choice. Unfortunately, the advice often prioritised the financial gains of advisers and introducers, rather than the best interests of clients. Pursuing a financial compensation claim can provide a means to address the injustices suffered.

Unique Reasons to Choose CP Financial Claims

Choosing CP Financial Claims for your mis-sold pension claim comes with a range of unique advantages. Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and legal complexities surrounding mis-sold pensions. We provide transparent and competitive fee structures, ensuring our clients receive fair and accessible services.

With a personalised approach, we tailor our strategies to your specific circumstances, striving to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim. Don't just take our word for it—our satisfied clients' testimonials speak to our excellence and dedication.

At CP Financial Claims, we understand the significance of such cases and offer our expertise in guiding you through the compensation process.

Start by submitting your details below for a free no-obligation chat.

Have you been affected?

You are not obliged to use our service. It is possible for you to present your claim for free, either to the firm, or person against whom you wish to complain, or to the statutory ombudsman (Financial Ombudsman Service or Pension Ombudsman Service) or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, whichever is applicable to your claim.

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