Rayner Spencer Mills

Capita Financial Software’s research arm, Synaptic, will now feature Rayner Spencer Mills (RSM) fund ratings and opinion within its online Synaptic Research application, as standard.

Both product and fund research customers can access the RSM ratings from the investments tab when selecting unit trusts/OEICs under the fund data heading. Independent financial advisers (IFAs) using the application can also now filter out funds that are not RSM rated using the features tab as normal. In addition, the ‘rated by RSM’ feature includes a link to the RSM website for further details on their ratings methodology. RSM rated funds are highlighted as such on relevant fund factsheets and are accompanied by the RSM investment process and opinion.

Commenting on the new service, Synaptic research manager, Ellen Ashcroft, said: “The FSA expects IFA firms to be able to demonstrate a clear and robust approach to fund selection. Synaptic Research plus RSM’s rated funds delivers that in a clearly demonstrable fashion. The ratings can be used by advisers in selecting funds, allowing them to identify easily and quickly the funds which have reached the required standard to attain a Rayner Spencer Mills rating. A rating has been given to just over 150 funds – around 10% of the fund universe within the 12 key Investment Management Association sectors. Having access to these Rayner Spencer Mills rated funds will free up adviser time and allow them to concentrate on seeing clients.”

Geoff Mills, director at Rayner Spencer Mills Research & Financial Consulting said: “Advisory firms are becoming increasingly aware that fund selection is a specialist role for which many feel they don’t have the necessary time or skills. Combined with the increasing range and complexity of investment choices this means that advisers are looking for additional help and guidance. Combining market leading research and fund analysis tools in this way is a streamlined and cost-effective way of providing that additional help. And adopting a consistent approach, like this, will not only deliver positive benefits under the treating customers fairly principles but will mitigate risks to the business”.