🌟 Hello Esteemed Colleagues and Fellow Visionaries! 🌟
I trust you’re all doing well and navigating these challenging times with resilience and optimism. Today, I have some exciting news that could significantly advance our collective mission in the financial planning industry.
🎥 Firstly, A Must-Watch Panel Discussion: How some IFAs steal pensions with impunity!
I recently had the privilege of participating (see 1 hour 20 mins) in a panel discussion that delved deep into the future of financial planning, the need for transparency, and the ethical considerations we all face. This is essential viewing for anyone committed to elevating the standards of our industry. See my previous blog: Unmasking highway robbers: the urgent need for financial transparency and integrity.
🤝 Potential Collaboration with TransparencyTask Force (TTF)
Now, for the big news: We’re in talks with the TransparencyTask Force (TTF), a global initiative aimed at increasing transparency and integrity within financial services. This collaboration could be a pivotal moment for us to champion the non-intermediating financial planning model as the way forward.
Today, I’m thrilled to share something that’s been brewing behind the scenes—a comprehensive project plan aimed at transforming the financial services industry for the greater good.
The Objective
Let’s cut to the chase: Our financial system needs a makeover. We’re talking about a shift towards transparency, integrity, and—most importantly—public interest. This isn’t a one-man job; it’s a collective effort that involves advocacy, education, and network development.
Who’s Involved?
- Financial Planners: That’s you and me, folks!
- Journalists: The pen is mightier, after all.
- Politicians: The movers and shakers.
- Public Interest Groups: The conscience of our society.
- Consumers: The lifeblood of the industry.
Strategy 1: Advocacy for a Royal Commission
Objective
We’re pushing for a Royal Commission to investigate the dark corners of the financial services industry.
Actions
- Engage Journalists: We’re reaching out to investigative journalists to shed light on the issue.
- Media Campaign: A full-blown campaign to make the public sit up and take notice.
- Political Lobbying: Convincing politicians to back the call for a Royal Commission.
Timeline & Responsibility
We’re looking at a 3-6 month timeline, with Andy, myself, and a committed team leading the way.
Strategy 2: Building a Trusted Advice Network
Objective
Creating a network of non-intermediating financial planners who are the good guys—the ones who genuinely operate in the public interest.
Actions
- Ethical Guidelines: We’re drafting a code of conduct that aligns with our mission.
- Recruitment: Onboarding financial planners who share our vision.
- Certification: A stamp of approval for those who make the cut.
Timeline & Responsibility
This is a 12-24 month game plan. And guess what? We already have a head start. With over 500 subscribers, thousands of social media followers, and my articles in Money Marketing and FT Adviser, we’re not starting from scratch.
Strategy 3: Educational Initiative
Objective
Educating the Joe and Jane Does about financial planning and their consumer rights.
Actions
- Educational Content: Think online courses, webinars, and more.
- Partnerships: Teaming up with educational institutions and public interest groups.
- Public Awareness: Campaigns that make financial literacy as basic as ABC.
Timeline & Responsibility
We’re targeting a 6-12 month rollout, with Martin, UKSA, and other organisations joining forces.
Milestones
- Q1: Journalists on board.
- Q2: Media campaign launched.
- Q3: Recruitment kicks off.
- Q4: Educational initiative goes live.
Monitoring and Evaluation
We’re setting up monthly progress meetings and quarterly reports to keep everyone accountable.
Next Steps
We’re in the final stages of fine-tuning this project plan. Once that’s done, it’s all systems go!
So, there you have it—a blueprint for change that we believe can revolutionise the financial services industry. We’re all in this together, and your input is invaluable. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make history!
🔥 Why This Matters to You
If you’ve been following this movement and are on the fence about getting more involved, let this be your nudge. We’re on the brink of something transformative, and your expertise, passion, and voice can make a real difference.
🗨️ Let’s Discuss
I’m eager to hear your thoughts and ideas on how we can maximise the impact of this potential collaboration. What unique perspectives can you bring to the table? How can we collectively drive this movement forward?
Your involvement could be the catalyst we need to bring about real change in our industry. So let’s seize this moment and make history together!
Academy of Life Planning 