Trust in financial planning is at an all-time low. Scandals like the recent £2m fraud case involving Nexus IFA only deepen the public’s cynicism. But let’s be honest—this isn’t a one-off. It’s a symptom of a broken system that blurs the lines between advice and sales, leaving consumers vulnerable. The solution? A financial planning profession … Continue reading The Financial Planning Crisis: Why We Need a Clear Wall Between Advice and Products
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Holistic Wealth Planning: The Future of Financial Advice Beyond Products
Imagine sitting down with a city banker—someone on a six-figure salary, comfortably supplemented by annual bonuses. The conversation starts predictably: pension contributions, stock and fund investments, perhaps a foray into Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) or Enterprise Investment Schemes (EISs). Conventional financial planning might recommend maximising these strategies for tax efficiency and long-term growth. But what … Continue reading Holistic Wealth Planning: The Future of Financial Advice Beyond Products
Becoming a Holistic Wealth Planner: Why Should You Care?
Do you dream of running your own business, living by your own rules, and being your own boss? Imagine a career where you leverage what you’re good at, what you love, what the world needs, and what people will pay you for. A career where you don’t just earn a living, but make a real … Continue reading Becoming a Holistic Wealth Planner: Why Should You Care?
The End of Free Financial Justice? How New Fees Could Undermine Consumer Protection at the Financial Ombudsman Service
Fairness Analysis: The Introduction of Fees for Complainants Seeking Legal Representation at the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) Introduction The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) was founded on the principle that consumers should have free and accessible redress when financial firms treat them unfairly. Historically, its funding model ensured that complainants bore no cost for lodging disputes, … Continue reading The End of Free Financial Justice? How New Fees Could Undermine Consumer Protection at the Financial Ombudsman Service
The Death Knell for Asset-Based Adviser Charges: Why Fixed Fees Are the Future
The financial advice industry stands at a critical juncture. The UK government’s decision to bring inherited pensions within the scope of Inheritance Tax (IHT) is not just a tax change; it marks the demise of asset-based adviser charges. With this shift, advisers must adapt—or risk obsolescence. The only sustainable way forward? Fixed-fee advice that prioritises … Continue reading The Death Knell for Asset-Based Adviser Charges: Why Fixed Fees Are the Future
Solving the UK’s NEET Crisis with the GAME Plan and M-POWER
The UK is facing a crisis. Almost one million young people are not in education, employment, or training (NEET)—the highest figure in over a decade. Government responses focus on tightening benefits and enforcing rigid job mandates, but this is the wrong approach. NEETs don’t need a stick—they need a carrot of opportunity. The truth is, … Continue reading Solving the UK’s NEET Crisis with the GAME Plan and M-POWER
The Silent Epidemic: Financial Mis-Selling and the Stigmatisation of Victims
For decades, victims of financial mis-selling by FCA-regulated advisers have been ignored, dismissed, and even vilified. Instead of receiving the justice they deserve, they are treated as an embarrassment to the system—ostracised, gaslighted, and accused of tarnishing the financial services industry. This is not just an isolated issue; it is an epidemic and a national … Continue reading The Silent Epidemic: Financial Mis-Selling and the Stigmatisation of Victims
The Truth About Regulation, Professionalism, and Consumer Protection in UK Financial Services
The Truth About Regulation, Professionalism, and Consumer Protection in UK Financial Services In the world of financial services, regulation is often mistaken for professionalism. The reality is more nuanced. While FCA-regulated financial advisers may dominate the conversation, they represent only a fraction of the industry. Financial planning is a broad profession, upheld by multiple professional … Continue reading The Truth About Regulation, Professionalism, and Consumer Protection in UK Financial Services
Why I Know Financial Recovery Is Possible—Because I’ve Lived It
Why I Know Financial Recovery Is Possible—Because I’ve Lived It I know what it means to lose everything—not once, but twice. For decades, I led pension strategies for the largest financial institutions in Britain. I understood financial security inside out—on paper. But life has a way of tearing up even the best-laid plans. Through two … Continue reading Why I Know Financial Recovery Is Possible—Because I’ve Lived It
Reclaiming Your Future: How Holistic Wealth Planning Empowers Financial Scam Victims
The Problem with Traditional Financial Advice For most people, having a financial adviser means relying on someone who, despite their expertise, may have a conflict of interest. This is because traditional financial advisers often earn money from selling financial products—whether through commissions or fees attached to transactions. This raises an important question: Can clients ever … Continue reading Reclaiming Your Future: How Holistic Wealth Planning Empowers Financial Scam Victims
Academy of Life Planning 