Trust, Tragedy and the True Power of Financial Advice

Momentum Financial Adviser Abrie Beyleveld shares lessons from his financial planning journey over the past three decades.

Abrie Beyleveld

When I started my journey with Momentum more than 30 years ago, I had plenty of enthusiasm and energy… but little understanding of people – especially how they thought and felt about their money.

It was a steep learning curve.
Like many new professionals eager to make their mark, I initially tried to impress prospective clients by peppering conversations with industry jargon and technical terms – only to realise that clarity and simplicity matter far more than complexity. It soon became clear: keeping financial advice relatable is the key to success.

Over the years, I’ve seen how different generations approach financial planning. Older generations – often more conservative – value security and long-term commitment, while younger generations typically take it upon themselves to learn; they’re hungry for knowledge and tech-savvy. Beyond understanding our clients’ goals, our job is to assess their level of financial literacy, tailor our approach, and offer guidance that is both insightful and accessible.

By the same token, younger advisers can learn from seasoned advisers, incorporating their experience while staying true to their own unique style. Conversely, experienced professionals should embrace the innovation younger generations bring – particularly in their use of technology. Sharing knowledge across generations is vital to keeping our industry relevant and resilient.

Family values.
Both my son and I began our careers in the security industry, tasked with protecting our communities. That same passion for safeguarding what matters most followed us into financial planning.

For more than three generations, our family has worked alongside clients who’ve entrusted us with their financial well-being. We encourage clients to think beyond their own lifetime – good financial advice is not just about one generation. It’s about building a legacy of security and opportunity for the next.

The values passed down in my family have shaped the way we advise today. We always say: give the same advice you’d give your own parents – and always prioritise financial advice over commission. If you can’t be honest and act in your client’s best interest – regardless of company or product – then you’re in the wrong business.

Equally important is managing client expectations: never promise what you can’t deliver. In this business, your reputation is everything.

And finally: there are no shortcuts. You need to do the work. Stay organised. Keep a fail-safe diary system. Follow up diligently. And show up – especially on the quiet days when the diary is empty.

The power of advice in action.
Financial planning is about enabling opportunity and freedom – helping people realise their dreams and protect what matters most. Nowhere is this more evident than in times of tragedy.

One story that continues to resonate with me is that of a young family – husband, wife, and two children – who were vastly underinsured. Like many, they prioritised pressing daily needs – such as school fees and groceries – over what can feel like a grudge purchase: insurance.

But after several discussions with their adviser, they restructured their budget to afford the right cover.

Fate dealt them a devastating blow: the husband – and primary breadwinner – was killed in an accident the very same day his policies were issued. Because of that financial planning, his wife and children were provided for. The payout meant a paid-off home, continued education, and financial security. They were able to grieve without the added burden of financial distress.

Two decades later, their children are financially independent, and their mother – despite battling severe PTSD – continues to receive support through her income protection plan.

A firm financial footing.
Today, our greatest reward is walking alongside clients, helping them build, protect and even pass along their financial dreams. In good times and in hardship, they have a foundation that enables them to weather any storm.

That is the true power – and privilege – of financial planning: being entrusted with someone’s future and helping them turn it into a legacy that lasts.