Introduction The financial services industry often paints a grim picture of retirement, particularly for those without pensions. The narrative usually revolves around "cliff-edge retirements," a term designed to induce fear and, consequently, encourage asset management services that come with fees. However, when we put the consumer first and integrate financial planning, technology, and advocacy against … Continue reading A New Paradigm for Retirement: Beyond Pensions and Towards Sustainable Livelihoods →

As we're seeing more people live well into their 80s and beyond, it's crucial to shift our societal focus from age to capability. The potential for older adults to contribute meaningfully—as volunteers, consultants, community leaders, employees, board members, and active family participants—is immense. Taking Charge of Your Health The key to ageing well lies in … Continue reading Unlocking the Full Potential of Older Adults →

Mental, social, and spiritual health are as important as physical health and are deeply interconnected. In a survey of 19,000 people across 19 countries, around 85 percent of respondents said their mental health is as important to them as their physical health, and their spiritual and social health were also listed by the majority as … Continue reading Adding Years To Life And Life To Years: Factors Influencing Health →

In today's complex financial landscape, the need for transparent, accessible, and equitable financial planning has never been greater. At the Academy of Life Planning, we're pioneering a transformative approach that aims to reshape the industry and contribute to a more just society. Let's break down what this means: What is Non-Intermediating Financial Planning? Traditional financial … Continue reading 🌟 Empowering Equitable Societies: The Revolutionary Approach of Non-Intermediating Financial Planning 🌟 →

Introduction In the world of financial planning, every basis point counts. With the rise of direct market investment platforms, consumers now have more options than ever to manage their portfolios. This article delves into the long-term financial implications of choosing between traditional wealth managers and direct market investments. The financial planning industry is undergoing a … Continue reading The Long-Term Financial Impact of Direct Market Investments vs. Wealth Managers →

Today, a joining member who has been a financial planning intermediary for many years questioned the value of taking the game plan accreditation programme. If you're in the same boat, this article aims to shed light on why this accreditation is not just beneficial but essential for your practice. 1. The Narrow Scope of FCA-Regulated … Continue reading Why Game Plan Accreditation is a Game-Changer for Financial Planners →

Introduction This Autumn, a bill is racing through the UK Parliament that could significantly alter the landscape of pension savings for younger and lower-paid workers. Known as the Pensions (Extension of Automatic Enrolment) (No. 2) Bill, it aims to extend pension auto-enrolment to those aged 18 and over. While the government champions this as a … Continue reading The Double-Edged Sword of Pension Auto-Enrolment Expansion: A Boon, a Stealth Tax, or a Future Tax Burden? →

Introduction Recent research by Abrdn has brought to light a worrying trend: retirement anxiety is on the rise among UK adults over 40. Max Brooks, the author of "World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War," once said, "Fear is the most valuable commodity in the universe." This statement rings true in the … Continue reading Challenging the Retirement Anxiety Narrative: The Commodification of Fear in Financial Planning →

Introduction The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently released its latest Financial Lives Survey, revealing some eye-opening statistics about the public's perception of financial advisers. While the survey shows that those who have used financial advisers generally trust them, a significant portion of the public remains sceptical. This post delves into these findings and argues for … Continue reading The FCA Survey: A Wake-Up Call for Financial Advisers and a Rallying Cry for Non-Intermediating Financial Planning →

1. Introduction Welcome to a new era of financial planning, one that puts you in the driver's seat. This post will explore why everyone needs a financial plan but not necessarily a financial intermediary. 2. The Importance of Financial Planning Financial planning is the cornerstone of a secure and fulfilling life. It's not just about … Continue reading Everyone Needs a Financial Plan, But Not Everyone Needs a Financial Intermediary →