THE team behind a financial services business have launched their own investment company after becoming “disillusioned” with the current offering.

The partners in award-winning Poole company Strategic Solutions have created Casterbridge Wealth, a discretionary investment management and stockbroking company.

Its Thomas Hardy-inspired name is intended to acknowledge the business’s ties with the south west.

The company will provide a range of services, from high-end bespoke portfolios for the wealthy, to investment models for consumers with various attitudes to risk.

Customers will access the services directly via Castebridge Wealth or indirectly through the platforms of major companies like Zurich.

Giles Wellington, marketing director for Casterbridge Wealth, said: “We have been disillusioned over the last few years with activities in this marketplace.

“Initially the big banks came in and controlled a large slice and more recently we have seen multinational fund management groups taking ownership of previously independent and boutique wealth management firms.

“We don’t believe the move of these massive firms to try and control all aspects of a client’s finances is healthy for the client and it could create a massive conflict of interest.

“We believe independently owned firms with a safe and secure solid underpinning are the best placed to give clients the best service and outcomes.”

“This is why we created Casterbridge Wealth, a top quality company to look after our clients and the clients of other adviser firms we enter into partnership with.”

The firm said it was is looking to make some high profile recruitment announcements during this coming year.

It is backed up by some of the largest names in financial services to ensure security of clients’ money, including the world’s largest provider of clearing and settlement, Pershing.

It is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority and also investors will have protection from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

Branksome-based Strategic Solutions was last year named Professional Adviser IFA of the Year in the South West and Moneyfacts Investment Adviser of the Year. It was a finalist in the Dorset Business Awards.