The direct-to-consumer business which London-listed Charles Stanley describes as its “digital division” said the launch is its first foray into the Apple ecosystem.

Charles Stanley Direct, part of UK wealth manager Charles Stanley, has launched an Apple Watch news app.

The free app, which Charles Stanley’s current and prospective clients can access through an Apple iPhone or Apple Watch device, provides company news, expert commentary, analysis and opinion. 

The launch is another example of financial institutions joining the world of apps and mobile client services. Earlier this year, Swissquote Bank launched a mobile banking and trading app for the Apple Watch, while Coutts announced it was backing contactless payment service Apple Pay in the UK.

“We recognise that digital client behaviour and expectation in financial services is continually evolving and we aim to be at the forefront of this digital evolution as a growing business. […] We have to ensure that all channels are open as digital processes and delivery permeates all levels of the wealth management sector,” said Charles Stanley’s chief executive, Paul Abberley.

“We already see well over 60 per cent of our mobile clients accessing Charles Stanley Direct through Apple devices, and it’s a growing trend over time. Already, we can envision multiple enhancements to the Apple Watch App including client account summaries and potentially trading in the not-too-distant future,” said Magnus Wheatley, managing director of Charles Stanley Direct.