The Gold Standard Awards 2012 are now open for entries.
The awards, which seek to reward the best in financial services based on an assessment of financial strength, capability, service, fair value and trust, are being run in association with TCF Index, a company that helps financial firms progress towards the Financial Service Authority's (FSA's) Treating Customers Fairly targets.
The Gold Standards, run by COVER's parent company Incisive Media, are open to entry from companies involved in independent financial advice, fund management, group pensions, individual pensions, insurance, mortgages, protection and discretionary portfolio management.
Previous year's winners include: JPMorgan Asset Management, F&C, BlackRock and Gartmore, and IFA firms Investment Quorum, Informed Choice, Clarity and Torquil Clark.
A spokesperson for Investment Quorum said: "An award like this means a huge amount in difficult times. It is easy to become introverted and focused on the internal workings of the business.
"We view the Gold Standard as a real accolade, particularly among some of the larger firms, which are having real trouble communicating with their investors, and are closing or selling funds. It feels like a beacon of trust and security."
The Awards consider key business elements, including capability, financial strength, service, trust and fair value. The simplified application process in association with TCF Index allows applicants to submit statements and include supporting evidence online. The system allows applicants to store and organise their application before they submit it.
In order to be considered for an Award, applicants are first asked to complete a short questionnaire online.
You will then be sent log in details for the full online BaseboardTM application process.
The entry process is all online and the deadline for entry is 30 July 2012. The awards will be presented at a reception at the House of Commons on 21 November 2012.
Visit www.goldstandardawards.com to find out more or to enter.
