Towards the New Century

Towards the New Century

A series of recent developments underlines the firm's commitment to the future. It charted a very different course from many of its rivals during the turbulent 1980s; and now, after 200 years, it can claim an unbroken record of professional skill, commitment to the private investor, and independence from any conflict of interest.

It became clear that the partnership structure of such a large business was unsuitable in the face of the changes in the regulatory regime and the greatly increased capital requirements. Accordingly the partnership was dissolved in April 1988 and a new company, Charles Stanley & Co Limited, immediately took its place. In October of that year the process was taken a stage further, with the sale of the business to The Oceana Consolidated Company PLC, a small quoted investment company which had been managed for many years in tandem with Charles Stanley & Co. By linking with a company under the same control, Charles Stanley was able to ensure its continuing independence of any major group, and its security for the future.

David Howard who was appointed Managing Partner 27 years before, in 1971, now became Managing Director of the new parent company Charles Stanley Group PLC, as well as of Charles Stanley & Co. Limited

The firm continued to expand its range of products and services. Charles Stanley was, for example, a pioneer of Personal Equity Plans, and now manages one of the largest Individual Savings Account operations of any stockbroking company. In addition, Charles Stanley offers extensive services in personal financial and tax planning, in research and economic forecasting, in corporate finance, and in advising on and dealing in Options.

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