In this episode of the MoneyWise UK & QuantQual Podcast, George sits down with Keith Balmer from Columbia Threadneedle to explore why the debate between active and passive investing might be missing the point.

Keith shares his career journey — from hedge funds at Man Group to launching a low-cost multi-asset franchise at Columbia Threadneedle — and explains why it’s not about choosing sides but blending investment styles for better client outcomes.

They cover:

• Why passive isn’t always the winner — and how 94% of top managers beat the MSCI World Index over rolling five years

• The three sources of added value in Columbia Threadneedle’s Universal Range: strategic asset allocation, stock selection, and tactical moves

• How the franchise keeps fees at 0.29% while delivering institutional-grade returns

• The real-world case for sustainable investing and why a long-term view matters

• Why consumer duty supports blending investment styles — not chasing the "best fund"

If you’re looking to rethink how you deliver returns, manage risk, and build long-term value, this one’s for you.

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Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.

In this episode of the Money Wise UK podcast, host George Ladds speaks with Ben Yearsley, a financial expert with a rich history in the industry. They discuss Ben's journey from his early aspirations of becoming a stockbroker to his extensive career at Hargreaves Lansdown and his current role in consultancy and investment. The conversation delves into the importance of asking questions, the balance between work and life, and the definition of success and happiness in one's career. Ben shares insights on investing in startups and the lessons from successes and failures. The episode concludes with Ben's advice on the significance of absorbing knowledge and the value of personal connections in the financial world.

Key takeaways

• Ben Yearsley has a long history in financial services, starting at Hargreaves Lansdown.
• He was always interested in finance, inspired by his father's banking career.
• Ben's career at Hargreaves was marked by innovation and personal growth.
• He left Hargreaves in 2012, feeling he was coasting and needed a change.
• Investing in startups has been a significant part of Ben's career post-Hargreaves.
• He emphasises the importance of asking questions to absorb knowledge.
• Ben believes in maintaining a work-life balance, especially with family commitments.
• For Ben, success is defined as doing what you enjoy and having the freedom to choose.
• He advocates for a lifestyle business approach rather than aggressive growth.
• Ben reflects on the cultural tendency to knock down success in the UK.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ben Yearsley and His Career Journey

03:09 The Evolution of Hargreaves Lansdown

06:14 Transitioning from Hargreaves to Fairview Investing

09:15 Investing in Startups and Private Companies

12:05 The Nature of Entrepreneurship vs. Business Ownership

15:15 Lessons Learned from Investing and Business Experiences

26:35 Building a Sustainable Business

32:02 Defining Success and Happiness

34:08 Balancing Work and Family Life

39:14 The Importance of Learning and Asking Questions

Fairview Investing

Book: In for a Penny by Peter Hargreaves

In this episode of the Money Wise UK podcast, host George Ladds speaks with Henry Rossiter of Belmont Estate about the estate's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and the challenges of balancing business with environmental values. Henry shares his journey from a family background in agriculture to leading Belmont's transformation into a venue that connects people with nature. The conversation explores the importance of community involvement, the need for a reconnection with nature, and the pressing environmental challenges we face today. Henry emphasises the role of biodiversity and sustainable practices in ensuring a better future for both the estate and the planet.

Takeaways

• Belmont Estate focuses on sustainability, community, and education.
• Henry Rossiter's journey began with a childhood interest in agriculture.
• The estate has evolved from a simple venue to a community hub.
• Financial sustainability is crucial for running Belmont Estate.
• Community engagement is key to nature connection and education.
• Nature connection programs have seen significant volunteer involvement.
• Reconnecting with nature can improve mental and physical well-being.
• Environmental challenges require innovative solutions and community action.
• Biodiversity net gain is essential for future developments.
• The future of Belmont Estate aims for growth through partnerships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Belmont Estate and Its Vision

03:08 Henry Rossiter's Journey to Belmont Estate

05:52 Transforming Belmont: Challenges and Opportunities

09:15 Balancing Business and Environmental Values

12:10 Community Engagement and Volunteering Initiatives

15:15 Reconnecting with Nature: The Importance of Community

20:58 The Impact of Nature on Wellbeing

27:11 Environmental Challenges and Solutions

36:00 Future Aspirations for Belmont Estate

Links:

Belmont Estate

Money Wise UK

The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative - Florence Williams

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📢Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalised guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.