The need for good quality advice in financial matters can never be discounted. As the world gets complex it is important to possess the expertise to interpret it in simple language for the average Joe. Now Brendon Mascarenhas is doing his bit to provide professional solid advice.
He is the first Goan investment advisor with triple financial designations. He is a Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA), a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a Chartered Wealth Manager ( CWM). What makes it even more meritorious is the fact that he passed this exams in his first attempt making him one in a tiny four percent that manages such a feat. And yes, he is only 28 years old.
When asked how he got into the world of finance he said, “I started my journey at Goa College of Engineering, delving into mechanical engineering. However, my path took a turn towards finance after successful tenures at JP Morgan and managing over 300 clients at ICICI Wealth Management in Bangalore. This hands-on experience eventually led me to establish my own venture, Mascarenhas Wealth.”
Finance, he said, always intrigued him. His experiences at JP Morgan and ICICI Wealth Management, fuelled his passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of financial planning. Establishing Mascarenhas Wealth was a natural progression, allowing him to utilize his expertise in a more personalized way.
He said when he was working in Bengaluru, he realised that people wanted a CFA to advise them on finance. After spending years getting these certifications, he said many people usually go and work in the corporate world. Brendon however was focused on helping the common retail client to get good advice. These designations he said not only showcases expertise but also a commitment to the highest ethical standards in financial services.
When asked how he approached the task of providing advice, he said,” We prioritize understanding the unique needs of our clients. By combining my expertise as a Chartered Financial Analyst, Certified Financial Planner, and Chartered Wealth Manager, we tailor financial plans that align with individual goals, be it retirement planning, insurance, tax strategies, or personalized investment approaches”.
Speaking about the challenges he faced while starting his business he said, “Like any entrepreneurial venture, starting Mascarenhas Wealth had its challenges. Building trust and credibility in the initial stages and establishing a client base were key hurdles. However, the dedication to providing top-notch financial advisory services and the unique combination of designations have helped overcome these challenges over time. There was also the temptation to pursue opportunities abroad, where large corporations offer high salaries for professionals with multiple financial designations like mine. However, my commitment to building the financial landscape in Goa prevailed”.
Speaking about the independence on the job he said it allows him to offer a more personalized and tailored approach to his clients. While larger institutions have their merits, he finds the freedom to innovate and provide highly individualized financial advice more fulfilling. It was all about creating a direct impact on the financial well-being of the community he served in Goa.
His approach seems to be paying off. He has approximately 70 clients with around Rs 11 crore under management.
Despite being based in Porvorim and operating out of Panjim his clientele extends beyond regional borders. He has clients from all over India and even abroad, and conducts his operations through online video calls. To enhance accessibility and streamline interactions, he operates through his website and app - Mascarenhas Wealth, providing a convenient platform for clients to engage with financial advisory services seamlessly.
He is also visiting faculty at Tapmi, Manipal, teaching practical financial planning based on excel. Brendon is passionate about financial literacy. He has conducted several workshops and seminars on financial literacy. He strongly believes that it should be taught in school since it is so important.