Testimonials
What our clients say about us
“I would highly recommend Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management.
Matt was a pleasure to work with and he handled the transfer of my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme extremely professionally and working within relatively tight timescales.
Matt provided clear, trusted advice at every stage and I felt in safe hands throughout the entire process. He was able answer any question I had, always getting back to me promptly with precise, knowledgeable guidance, and proactively keeping me up to date from start to finish.
Importantly I felt Matt struck the right balance between providing a comprehensive, rigorous advice approach regarding the DB pension transfer, whilst enabling the whole process to feel pragmatic and straightforward.
I really appreciated all your advice and support, and above all in helping me achieve the outcomes I wanted.
Many thanks for an invaluable service“
Nigel Mear - IBM Pension Plan
“I had almost given up on trying to find an IFA who could transfer my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme on an insistent client basis.
I wasted 2 years of trying until I came across Matt MacGuire and Square Mile Asset Management.
Matt handled my DB pension transfer very efficiently and professionally.
I would strongly recommend using Matt and Square Mile Asset Management as the process went very smoothly and they respected my decision to still pursue my pension transfer against their advice.”
Prosper Mwedzi – Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
“I dealt with Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management who helped me with my Defined Benefit (DB) pension transfer.
He simplified the transfer process and helped me step by step. The paperwork was straightforward, and he was very helpful and punctual with online meetings.
We succeeded in transferring the DB pension.
Matt was friendly, knowledgeable and kept me fully informed with the progress of my pension transfer.
I would highly recommend Matt and Square Mile Asset Management to my friends and family”.
Iftakhar Ahmed - Heygate Group Pension & Life Assurance Scheme
“After several months attempting to locate a company who would be willing to handle the transfer of funds from a Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme to a personal pension, I was finally fortunate enough to find Square Mile Asset Management, run by Matt MacGuire.
When I first contacted Matt, he took the time to explain the transfer process and steps involved and my options in detail along with the associated risks involved with a DB pension transfer.
After delivering a detailed pension transfer report outlining the factors and risks, Matt respected my decision to proceed as an insistent client and handled all correspondence with the DB pension scheme and new personal pension provider.
The process was efficient and professional with Matt providing continual updates along the way. In total, the transfer was completed in under 3 months.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Matt and Square Mile Asset Management to any potential clients who have struggled to date to find the right company to handle the transfer of funds from a DB pension scheme.”
Keith Rintoul – RFS Pension Scheme
“I had been trying to transfer an old Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme for two years. My knowledge of pensions, especially the DB pension schemes was extremely limited.
All the companies and advisors I had previously been recommended, for one reason or another, failed to deliver.
It looked like I was at a dead-end!
I was then advised to contact Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management.
Matt was brilliant in every way and was immediately on the case. He completed the DB pension transfer quickly and efficiently, talking me through every step of the way. Lines of communication were always open.
I would strongly recommend Matt MacGuire and Square Mile Asset Management. I am not one to normally contribute to testimonials but, in this case, I felt compelled to do so, such was the excellent advice and service. Totally trustworthy in every way.”
David Cook – News International Pension Plan
“Transferring a Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme can be a complex and daunting process, but Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management made it simple and straightforward.
After facing challenges with other advisors over a two-year period, I was on the brink of giving up. However, upon turning to Matt, I was so pleased with the results.
From delivering a detailed pension transfer report outlining the factors to consider in making the decision to providing updates on the progress of the transfer, Matt ensured that I was well-informed throughout the process.
The pension transfer report provided by Matt was not only lengthy but also comprehensive, offering a thorough summary of the reasons why transferring the DB pension may or may not be the best course of action.
Armed with all the necessary information, I felt equipped to make an informed decision about my DB pension scheme.
While the transfer process took approximately three months to complete, I believe that it could have been expedited if my DB pension provider had been more proactive.
Despite this delay, I was impressed by the efficiency and professionalism displayed by Matt and his team. Ultimately, I have nothing but praise for them. I express my gratitude for Matt's assistance throughout the DB pension transfer process and I enthusiastically recommend him to others in need of similar services.
In conclusion, I have had a positive experience and Matt serves as a testament to Square Mile's commitment to providing top-notch service and support to their clients.
This testimonial highlights the importance of finding a reliable and trustworthy financial advisor when navigating the complexities of DB pension transfers.
If you need assistance with your DB pension transfer, consider reaching out to Matt for a seamless and stress-free experience.”
Will Taylor – Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
“Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management is exactly the financial advisor you need if you want to transfer your Defined Benefit (DB) pension.
He respects the fact that it is your money and will walk you through the full transfer advice process accordingly.
Although he advised me against transferring, I wished to proceed with the transfer as an ‘insistent client’.
He deals with everything, is prompt and doesn’t waste any time. He had my pension transferred within 6 weeks, and I feel the advice fee was worth it based on the work he did on my behalf.
I have no hesitation in recommending him above all others and will use him going forwards if I need any further advice. Use him, ignore all others, you will not regret it.”
Andy Plumb – Leaderflush Doors Group Final Salary Pension Scheme
“I had two Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes which I wanted to transfer. This would allow me to retire at age 55 and give me the flexibility I desired to have investment control and vary my income levels.
Unfortunately, I had been let me down by another advisor and all my plans were in limbo when I contacted Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management.
From the first phone call with Matt, he was the ultimate professional and acted quickly with the full pension transfer advice. Every communication was responded to the same day and in most cases within an hour of sending an email.
Matt provided me with his very detailed pension transfer advice reports that concluded I should remain in my DB pension schemes.
However, as I demonstrated that I fully understood the risks and consequences of transferring against the advice, I followed their ‘insistent client’ process and in under four weeks both my DB pension schemes were transferred to a personal pension giving me total flexibility to access my pension funds as I wished.
I can't thank Matt enough for this opportunity and I just wish like many others that I had found him a few years earlier, as it would have saved me a lot of time and money!”
Graham Wren – ASDA Group Pension Scheme & Safeway Pension Scheme
“I had an old Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme with the Merchant Navy. I wanted to transfer to access the 25% tax free cash and defer taking any pension income until a later date.
I approached several financial advisors to do this and was told every time that it was not possible, even though it was my money. I eventually contacted Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management. Matt talked me through all the available options and explained that if his advice was to remain in my DB pension scheme; and on the assumption I followed the regulator’s guidance and demonstrated that I fully understood the risks and consequences of taking this course of action, I could proceed with the pension transfer as an insistent client.
From start to finish I was kept fully updated on the progress, the pension transfer has now been completed and I have my tax-free cash. I can wholeheartedly recommend Matt and Square Mile Asset Management, and I’m a very happy client”.
Alan Holding - Merchant Navy Ratings Pension Fund
“I had a Defined Benefit (DB) pension transfer value of below £100,000 and numerous refusals to take me on as a client due to this relatively low transfer value. After an unsuccessful search for a financial advisor to provide full advice and permit the transfer, I came across Square Mile Asset Management and Matt MacGuire.
Matt has provided me with exactly what I wanted in a very straight forward and efficient manner.
For anyone facing similar obstacles, I can very much recommend Matt and Square Mile Asset Management.”
Mark Pillinger – The Rolls-Royce UK Pension Fund
“I was looking to transfer my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme, as this would allow me to retire early, have income flexibility and potentially higher lump sum death benefits for my family.
I approached a couple of firms to facilitate this but wasn’t filled with confidence and was somewhat bewildered by the terminology they used, and the layers of red tape involved.
Luckily for me I came across Square Mile Asset Management and more especially Matt MacGuire.
I cannot praise them highly enough. Thoroughly professional, they cut through the pension transfer jargon and helped make a complicated process easier to understand.
The whole process was made painless, and much quicker than other firms had quoted.
Always willing to go the extra mile they helped me achieve the outcome I wanted and enabled me to fulfil my dream of retiring at age 55. I can now enjoy precious time with my young family.
I therefore wouldn’t hesitate recommending Matt MacGuire and Square Mile Asset Management to anyone looking to transfer a DB pension scheme.
They really are excellent and are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned.”
Mark Oates - Devonport Royal Dockyard Pension Scheme
“I wanted to transfer my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme to a personal pension scheme where I would have more investment control, income flexibility and potentially higher death benefits for my family.
I thought I had found an advisor who promised he would be able to do this for me, this was not the case, after missing deadlines and seeing a large reduction in the transfer value of my DB pension scheme he then said he could no longer proceed with the transfer.
So, after thinking there was no solution, my husband came to the rescue when he found Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management.
Matt confirmed that if his advice was to remain in my DB pension scheme; and on the assumption I followed the regulator’s guidance and demonstrated that I fully understood the risks and consequences of taking this course of action, I could proceed with the pension transfer as an insistent client.
Matt also confirmed that he would be able to complete the full pension transfer advice within the required deadline.
True to his word this was done, both very quickly and smoothly, while receiving great help and advice from him throughout the whole process.
I can strongly recommend Matt and Square Mile Asset Management to anyone looking to transfer their DB pension scheme.
My one regret was not finding Matt sooner!!”
Donna Carmichael - Singer and Friedlander Limited Pension
“After being previously advised that I couldn't transfer my two Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes to a flexible personal pension scheme as an ‘Insistent Client’, I contacted Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management.
Matt assured me that if I followed the regulator’s guidance and that I fully understood the risks and consequences of taking this course of action, I could proceed with the pension transfers as an insistent client.
I wished to transfer to make immediate gifts to my children from the 25% tax free cash and the flexibility to drawdown pension income later.
Matt replied to every email promptly and helped me with any queries and completing the necessary transfer paperwork.
Everything was dealt with in a professional manner and within tight timescales.
I would highly recommend Matt to all my friends and colleagues and look forward to working with him as my advisor in the future”.
Edward Lawson - Short Brothers Pension Scheme & NILGOSC Pension Scheme (Translink)
"What a delight to work with Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management; an elusive find with a ‘can-do’ attitude in a world of red tape.
Matt puts the power back in the hands of the individual and prefaces choice over intractable rules which negate personal financial freedoms.
Matt is a consummate professional with a wealth of information and boundless energy. He facilitated my DB pension transfer for me with ease after approaching many other companies who were unable to do this.
Matt is solution-focused rather than problem-oriented and will give you all the advice you need to make an informed decision. I also found him to be highly accessible and communicative which was helpful due to time constraints to push the DB pension transfer through.
I would highly recommend Matt”."
Paula Fenn – Chevron UK Pension Plan
"Having tried unsuccessfully to transfer my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme with another financial adviser, my husband then found Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management.
I was dubious at first having been rejected by another financial adviser. However, thanks to Matt and Square Mile Asset Management, I now have full control over my pension fund and my pension won't die with me.
I loved the simplicity yet detailed paperwork which needed completing and the professional & prompt responses we received from Matt.
I cannot recommend him enough."
Alison McConnell – Royal London Group Pension Scheme
“I contacted Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management with the challenge to transfer my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme from a previous employer into a personal pension that I could drawdown as required.
Timescales were tight as my transfer value was due to expire within two months. The transfer was complicated as I was aware that the likely advice would be to remain in the DB pension scheme, although Matt confirmed that I could transfer, post advice, as an ‘insistent client’ if I wished.
He was good to his word and performed the task with professionalism as well as clear and concise communication at every step of the process. All my emails were answered (if not same day) within 24 hours and every response was informative and accurate.
Matt helped me through all the paperwork and kept me updated on progress. True to his word, the transfer was completed within the timeframe required and with minimal fuss and bother.
I would highly recommend Matt and Square Mile Asset Management for the way the pension transfer was undertaken and completed, and I thank him for his support and advice along the way. A job well done and a delighted customer!”
Darren Channer – DHL Group Retirement Plan
"Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management helped me navigate the complex path of transferring my Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme. Everything was undertaken in a professional and timely manner which meant I kept my guaranteed transfer value. Any delays would have seen the transfer value decrease, potentially by a significant sum. I would thoroughly recommend Matt and the DB pension transfer service provided."
Gavin Bosse - The Barclays Bank UK Retirement Fund
"I held a Defined Benefit (DB) pension with Bradford & Bingley which I’d decided would meet my needs better if I transferred to a personal pension, this would allow me to take out a higher tax-free lump sum, along with flexible income drawdowns, which meant that I could achieve my goal of retiring early.
However, I was in for a shock when I realised how difficult it was to get an adviser to take on a DB pension transfer case, and of the few that did, the fees were exorbitant, especially considering that no guarantee that a positive recommendation to transfer would be made. On top of this, an adviser from one of the major providers said that it would take 6 to 8 months simply to produce the transfer report!
Suddenly faced with the dilemma of not knowing how I could take this forward; I came across Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management. Matt got to work straight away, was always easy to get hold of, and submitted my pension transfer request well within the remaining seven-week transfer window. I would strongly recommend Matt to anyone in a similar situation, I wasted a lot of time talking to advisers, none of whom were able to offer the service that I was looking for."
Nick Clarke - Bradford & Bingley Staff Pension Scheme
“I reached my age 55 milestone with a couple of healthy pension pots, I plan to retire to Portugal and wanted freedom from my two Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme straightjackets, particularly to enjoy flexible income withdrawals to suit my lifestyle and to bequeath any residual funds to the beneficiaries of my choice. Only to discover from various financial advisors that ‘it is rare to achieve a positive recommendation to transfer a DB pension scheme and, in that event, they will not support a transfer, but their advice fees remain the same’. This proved to be a costly dead end!
I then found Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management, who is in a completely different league. Matt is super-efficient, delivers what he says in lightning speed with timely, direct, and clear communication throughout.
Within four months I had transferred my two DB pension schemes, and I’m a very happy customer! Highly Recommend!.”
Lorraine Wright - Arval UK Employee Benefits Plan & Aon Retirement Plan - Bain Hogg Section
“I was referred to Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management in early 2022 as I wanted to transfer my Xerox Final Salary Pension Scheme. Matt provided me with an exceptional service, very prompt, responsive, and pragmatic. More importantly, his understanding of my requirements and his subsequent advice was always clear and concise, highlighting both the pros and cons of transferring and dealing with the inevitable obstacles in a cool and professional manner. I highly recommend him.”
Simon Harrison – Xerox Final Salary Pension Scheme
“Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management provided a genuine expert service on the transfer and consolidation of my UK pension funds into a custom built and cost efficient QROPS. His execution came with a detailed and researched report about suitability in light of my personal circumstances. His work is thorough, timely and insightful. And in the few years since the transfer occurred, he has remained responsive and willing to offer further advice. I confidently recommend his services”.
Guillaume Huteau – CRO - Carmignac Asset Management - London
““After a 30+ year career in retail and commercial banking, I was fortunate to have accumulated a Defined Benefit (DB) pension scheme. I wanted to take advantage of pension freedoms, particularly flexibility of income drawdown in retirement and ensuring a legacy to pass on in the event of my death (neither afforded by the DB scheme). Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management provided comprehensive advice, and whilst the ultimate decision to transfer out of the DB scheme was clearly mine, Matt’s calm and assuring approach made the decision much easier. I would recommend, and indeed I have recommended Matt to several former colleagues in a similar situation to me.”
Nick Bailey - Head of Transformation, Legal Advisory – DWF - London
“Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management facilitated the transfer of my International Pension Plans (IPPs) to a QROPS in 2017. Matt has been highly knowledgeable and trustworthy throughout the whole process. He can be relied upon to take care of any issues swiftly and accurately. He will also take the time to answer any questions. I have been very happy with his service and have recommended Matt to friends and business partners”.
Arndt Muthreich - Managing Director, Head of European Fixed Income Research - Stifel Europe - London
“I worked in London for a number of Investment Banks (Fixed Income & Derivatives Sales) for almost 20 years. During this period, I was resident in the UK but non-domiciled and I contributed to various International Pension Plans (IPPs). When I moved back to Italy to become a Private Banker in 2012, I realised that I needed to consolidate my IPPs and take control of my investments. I met various consultants in the international pensions space, and I did not trust anyone and even less the solutions they offered! At the end of 2017 I was finally referred to Matt MacGuire at Square Mile Asset Management by a former colleague, who had just restructured his IPPs exactly as I wanted. Dealing with Matt was great from the start: Matt is knowledgeable, reliable and transparent. He delivered exactly what I expected at the start of 2018. I would recommend Matt to anybody who has similar needs and I have already recommended Matt to friends and former colleagues”.
Enrico Cecchini - Senior Private Banker- FinecoBank - Milan
“Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management has helped me transfer and amalgamate various pension schemes into my SIPP over the years and have found him to be extremely knowledgeable, professional and capable. I have complete faith in Matt’s ability and would have no hesitation recommending him to my family and friends, he always manages to make an onerous process easy and seamless”.
Britt Lintner – Managing Director International Business Development- Entrust Global– London
“I was referred to Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management in late 2020, to facilitate the transfer of a Defined Benefit (DB) pension to a SIPP. From start to finish, Matt made the effort to explain in detail all the issues in a comprehensive and highly professional manner. There were some unforeseen hurdles on route, but Matt remained calm and persistent throughout and dealt with any issues arising in a timely fashion. Matt is helpful, straight and focussed. I’d recommend his services to anyone”.
Rupert Trotter – CEO- Aequitas Holdings Pte Ltd – Myanmar
“I have 25 years’ experience in investment banking, and I was looking for an adviser with a full set of skills and availability. Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management provided me with a personalised service and solutions to manage my pensions. I would highly recommend Matt as a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional. Thanks for all your assistance and advice”.
Ihab Saidi – Senior Convertible Bond Sales- Barclays Bank - Paris
“After 30+ years of work, I realised that I had zero control or visibility of my various UK and International Pension Plans. Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management organised, planned and optimised my various plans into a very efficient international structure and provided me with peace of mind as I approach full retirement. I have since recommended Matt to some of my closest friends without reservation.”
Robert Koenig – Investment Banker – Equity Capital Markets, M&A & TMT – Germany
“Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management consistently provides well thought-through advice in a timely manner. He is a trusted advisor”.
Bob Liao – Director – Zeus Capital – London
“As a non-domiciled resident and having worked for a number of international financial institutions in the City of London for more than 25 years, I had various International Pension Plans (IPPs). Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management was most helpful with his detailed understanding and experience in this area. Matt provided much appreciated, valuable advice to consolidate and restructure my IPPs into an efficient and flexible international structure to best support myself and my family for the years to come.”
Joachim Koolmann – Deal Partner- Vorsprung Industrieholding SCS - London
“I had a complicated situation with my various pension plans resulting from the fact that they had been accumulated from three different employments in London and were a combination of International Pension Plans (IPPs) and UK pension plans. Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management provided me with a clean and cost-effective international solution. He dealt with all counterparties in a very professional and pro-active fashion. He is always reachable and will provide solutions to issues. Matt has existing relationships with the pension intermediaries for the big banks which helps a smooth exit.”
Sylvie Sauton – Investment Banker - Equity Capital Markets - Paris
“Last year I was contacted by a pension administrator to remind me that in 1983 I had left behind (and subsequently forgotten) a UK Defined Benefit (DB) pension plan with a major UK food company. Pleasant surprise! I had also built up a UK based Defined Contribution (DC) SIPP. I wanted to convert the DB pension to a lump sum and transfer it into my existing SIPP. Seemed simple. But the only problem was that I had become a US citizen 20 years ago and I now live in Hawaii, so not so simple.
I was referred to Matt MacGuire of Square Mile Asset Management by my SIPP provider and he made the process easy and seamless. Over the course of just a few weeks he produced the necessary pension transfer report allowing me to transfer the DB pension into my SIPP. Matt managed to deal with my existing UK financial contacts without further involvement by me. I am happy to recommend Matt for this type of transaction.”
David Jenkins – Retired – Hawaii, USA