Ongoing Advice Review: Could the FCA Follow Australia’s Nuclear Option?

As we enter H2 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is on the verge of announcing the results of their much-anticipated advice review involving the UK's top 20 financial advice firms. The whisperings from the regulatory grapevine suggest that some of these big boys have been more than a little naughty, with at least two … Continue reading Ongoing Advice Review: Could the FCA Follow Australia’s Nuclear Option?

The Future of Work: Why Holistic Financial Planning is Key to a Fulfilling Retirement

In today’s fast-evolving economic landscape, the concept of retirement is undergoing a radical transformation. Traditional notions of a 'hard stop' retirement, where work ceases entirely at a certain age, are increasingly unrealistic for many. New research by Phoenix Insights reveals that only half of UK adults believe they will achieve this ideal. Instead, a significant … Continue reading The Future of Work: Why Holistic Financial Planning is Key to a Fulfilling Retirement

Breaking the Financial Advice Barrier: Why Empowerment, Not Intermediation, is the Future

You’ve probably heard it before: “It’s not possible for advisers to serve those in the advice gap.” Sounds dramatic, doesn’t it? Like something straight out of a financial apocalypse movie. But let's cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter. The financial advice industry is in turmoil, and not for the … Continue reading Breaking the Financial Advice Barrier: Why Empowerment, Not Intermediation, is the Future

Navigating Retirement with a Disabled Child: The Planner’s Perspective

Picture this: You’re a parent, juggling the relentless demands of caring for a disabled child. The financial adviser’s perspective is that causes a pension gap, their solution? Save more in pensions. But is that really the whole story? Let’s dive into a more comprehensive, realistic approach. The Adviser’s Take: Save, Save, Save Real-Life Impacts: The … Continue reading Navigating Retirement with a Disabled Child: The Planner’s Perspective

The State Pension Panic: What They’re Not Telling You (And What You Should Really Do)

Hey, ever had that sinking feeling when you think about your future and your state pension? You’re not alone. A whopping 70% of Britons believe the state pension will be as extinct as dinosaurs by the time they retire1. Sounds scary, right? But before you dive into a pool of despair, let’s dissect this scare … Continue reading The State Pension Panic: What They’re Not Telling You (And What You Should Really Do)

The Wealth Industry’s Existential Crisis: Can Technology and Transparency Save the Day?

In the world of financial advice, a seismic shift is underway. Regulated financial advisers are being pushed to segment their client bases more aggressively, aiming to tailor services to consumers' specific needs. This ostensibly makes sense, as it focuses resources on clients with higher investable assets, complex needs, and a penchant for frequent contact—essentially, the … Continue reading The Wealth Industry’s Existential Crisis: Can Technology and Transparency Save the Day?

10 Steps to Dispel Overwhelm: Integrating Life Planning into Financial Planning

10 Steps to Dispel Overwhelm: Integrating Life Planning into Financial Planning Member Question: There's no doubt that AoLP is leading the way in financial planning, and I’m genuinely excited to be part of it all. But here’s where I struggle: the sheer amount of information and resources can be really overwhelming for me. Maybe it’s … Continue reading 10 Steps to Dispel Overwhelm: Integrating Life Planning into Financial Planning

HapNav Mastery | Training and Support for Self-directed Financial Planners

Course Overview: Join the Academy of Life Planning's monthly HapNav Mastery course commencing on Wednesday, 17th July at 4:00 PM London time. This course consists of a one-hour group Zoom meeting, offering comprehensive training and support for self-directed financial planners. The sessions will be recorded and made available for free to Academy members on the … Continue reading HapNav Mastery | Training and Support for Self-directed Financial Planners

How the Academy of Life Planning Helps Firms Meet Vulnerability Regulations

In an ever-evolving financial landscape, regulatory compliance remains a top priority for firms committed to delivering exceptional service. One critical area of focus is ensuring the needs of vulnerable consumers are met. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has highlighted the importance of leveraging digital services and information technology to support these individuals. The Competition and … Continue reading How the Academy of Life Planning Helps Firms Meet Vulnerability Regulations

Understanding Your Duty: CMA Regulations on Safeguarding Vulnerable Clients in Financial Planning

It's not only FCA-regulated financial planners who need to change ways of working: a guide for CMA-regulated financial planners. As financial planners operating under the oversight of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), it is crucial to stay informed about the regulatory requirements designed to protect vulnerable customers. Many financial planners might overlook these obligations, … Continue reading Understanding Your Duty: CMA Regulations on Safeguarding Vulnerable Clients in Financial Planning