Bordeaux has become one of France’s most desirable destinations for expats. With its elegant architecture, rich culture and world-famous vineyards, it is easy to see why so many from the UK and the US choose to settle here. But while life in Bordeaux offers a wonderful lifestyle, the French financial system can be challenging to navigate — especially for those used to Anglo-American models.

This is where an English speaking financial adviser in Bordeaux can make a real difference. From retirement planning to tax optimisation, advisers with international expertise provide personalised support tailored to your goals, helping you in achieving financial stability and success. Unlike automated platforms, they help you structure your finances confidently, protect your wealth and make informed decisions at every stage of your journey.

Why expats in Bordeaux choose financial advice

Relocating to France brings exciting opportunities but also financial complexities. Many expats face difficulties with:

• Understanding French tax rules
• Accessing international investment options
• Managing pensions across borders
• Navigating inheritance law and property purchases
• Protecting their family’s financial future as clients of financial advisers

Independent financial advisers provide unbiased advice about products from various companies, ensuring a wide range of options for clients.

An English speaking adviser bridges the gap between financial systems, offering clear, expert guidance. Whether you are retiring, building a business or managing international assets, professional advice can be a game changer.

If you are not satisfied with your financial adviser’s response, it is important to follow the proper complaints procedure, including escalating the matter to the Financial Ombudsman if necessary.

Local knowledge, global perspective

What sets an expat adviser apart is their ability to combine deep local knowledge with international financial expertise. For expats in Bordeaux, that includes:

• French systems: Residency, banking, tax, healthcare and inheritance
• Cross-border know-how: UK pensions, US reporting, offshore investments, currency exposure
• English-speaking support: Clear communication with no language barrier

Some advisers may specialise in a particular area such as pensions or investments, which can influence the services they offer.

Your life may be in Bordeaux, but your finances likely span borders. An adviser who understands this dual reality ensures you avoid costly mistakes and stay aligned with your long-term goals. Choosing the right firm with a strong understanding of both local and international financial landscapes can significantly impact the quality of advice and services you receive.

How an English speaking financial adviser can help

Whether you are a retiree, professional or entrepreneur, here are five core areas where an adviser brings real value:

Understanding the different adviser charges is crucial, as flat-fee advisers charge a set rate for specific services, while fee-only advisers may charge an hourly rate, impacting the overall cost of financial planning. It’s also important to distinguish between one-off advice and ongoing guidance to clarify your needs before consulting a financial adviser. Additionally, understanding the financial products recommended by advisers, including your rights related to those products, is essential for making informed decisions.

1. Investment strategy

An adviser will help you build a global investment portfolio suited to your personal goals, risk profile, and time horizon, ensuring that your money is managed and invested effectively in alignment with your financial objectives. For expats, this includes managing currency risk, choosing suitable platforms, and aligning investments with your tax residency. Many do not realise how different French investment products can be compared to those in the UK or US.

2. Retirement planning

Planning for retirement across countries can be complex. An adviser helps you forecast income, optimise drawdowns, and ensure your retirement plan is compatible with both French and foreign pension rules, while also maximising your savings. This is especially helpful if you hold UK pensions or US-based retirement accounts.

3. Tax planning

Expats often face tax obligations in multiple countries. Hiring a financial adviser can significantly impact your financial strategy based on how much money you have to invest. Advisers help you reduce liability and remain compliant, including with FATCA, CRS, and French wealth tax, while also helping you understand the various fees associated with these obligations. They also structure your finances to make the most of tax-efficient options available to residents in France.

4. Estate and inheritance planning

French succession law differs significantly from what UK and US nationals may expect, and advisers guide you through how to pass on assets while respecting both local and international rules, tailored to your unique financial situation. Proper planning can save time, stress and taxes for your heirs. It is worth paying for a financial adviser to help navigate these complex estate and inheritance planning decisions.

5. Risk management and protection

Life is unpredictable. Financial advisers charge for their services through various fee structures, such as hourly rates, flat fees, and percentage-based fees, which are important to understand in relation to the adviser’s services and potential returns on investment. Advisers help you prepare for the unexpected through budgeting, insurance, emergency funds, and diversification. This is especially important if your income, property or dependents are spread across countries.

How to choose the right adviser in Bordeaux

Here is what to look for when choosing your financial adviser:

• Experience with UK and US expats
• Regulated by EU or international financial authorities
• Transparent about how they are paid
• Offers access to a wide range of financial products, not just in-house solutions
• Fluent in English and familiar with French systems
• Able to support long-term cross-border planning
• Can help navigate significant life events such as getting married or starting a business

The first meeting with a potential adviser is crucial to establish trust and ensure they understand your financial needs and goals.

At Harrison Brook, we specialise in working with British and American expats in France. We are independent, regulated, and committed to helping you reach your goals with clarity and confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need a financial adviser as an expat?

If your finances cross borders, the rules and obligations can become complex quickly. An adviser helps you make confident, informed decisions and avoid expensive pitfalls. Even one conversation with a human adviser can help clarify your priorities and options.

Can I transfer my UK pension to France?

Yes. Many UK expats consider options like QROPS or international SIPPs. The best solution depends on your age, pension type and long-term plans. A regulated financial adviser will help you compare options and manage the process efficiently.

How can I make sure my family is financially protected?

Advisers can support you with international insurance, inheritance structures and succession planning. Their role is to ensure that if anything happens, your family’s finances remain protected and legally compliant in France and abroad, providing peace of mind for their clients.

Is now a good time to invest?

That depends on your goals and risk appetite. Advisers help you create a long-term plan based on personal circumstances, not short-term market trends. Timing the market is less important than having a clear, strategic approach to achieve your financial goals.

Speak to a financial adviser in Bordeaux today

If you are a UK or US expat living in Bordeaux or planning a move, Harrison Brook offers transparent, independent financial advice designed specifically for your needs. From pensions and investments to tax and retirement, we are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you benefit from our expertise.

Book your free consultation today and start building your financial future in France with confidence.

👉 Contact Harrison Brook in Bordeaux