Lifetime cash flow forecasts and financial planning have grown in popularity as have the software systems available. If the software you are using is not shown above, please add a comment with details.

1st software is the main one we use, but are currently considering using Truth as well as an add on

I have used the 1st Financial Planning Scenario quite a bit before in my previous job and, once you get past the initial frustrations, quirks in the system and manipulate the output so it comes out how it should rather than how the system thinks it should ( ), it can produce quite a comprehensive report provided you put in all the appropriate caveats on the assumptions you have used etc.

what winds me up about 1st is that if you want a breakdown by asset class you can get one for the pensions, but I can't seem to find one for just all investments, does anyone else find this or am I looking in the wrong place for this.

we're half considering paying 1st to design the asset breakdown for us, but knowing our luck as soon as we get it done, they'll bring it out anyway!!!

Hi Emma

With regard to the asset allocation of all your investments, have you tried using Financial Scenario Analysis (FSA). I'm sure you know how to use this but for those that dont, open the FSA module making sure you are in the correct client. Click on scenario in the top menu bar and select Financial Planning. Then from the menu down the left hand side select Asset Analysis. Once you have this you can then copy this information into a word or excel document (excel is better). You will need to tidy it up but it will give you the breakdown of the funds by asset class. It is not absolutely perfect but if you keep the clients investments and funds up to date this does give you a good idea.

Let me know how you get on, if you would like me to talk you through this please email me here.

Martin

Used Prestwood in a previous job and very impressed (although the interface at the time was a bit scruffy and took a lot of getting used to). A must tool for financial planners in my opinion.