When it comes to protecting consumers in UK financial services, one thing has become abundantly clear: the system isn’t working as it should. With the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) bound by a framework that prioritises growth and international competitiveness, achieving genuine consumer justice seems increasingly out of reach. The FCA’s balancing act between protecting market … Continue reading The Fight for Justice in UK Financial Services: A Call to Action
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Why We Need a Wall Between Regulators and the City
By Steve Conley, December 12, 2024 Trust is the foundation of any healthy financial system. Without it, people hesitate to invest, plan for their future, or participate in the economy. Yet, in the UK, the relationship between our financial regulators and the City raises serious questions about whose interests are being prioritised—and at what cost. … Continue reading Why We Need a Wall Between Regulators and the City
The Case for a Wall Between Advice and Product Sales
“There should be a wall, between advice and products, between advice and large institutions, and between our regulators and large institutions. We need an integrity that is impeccable. Until we actually institute a way of bringing good heart, great integrity, and a fiduciary relationship that is sustainable into the industry, we are going to fail. … Continue reading The Case for a Wall Between Advice and Product Sales
Is Ethical Investing Good for Our Security?
When we think of ethical investing, we often imagine aligning our financial decisions with our values. Avoiding harm, promoting sustainability, and supporting positive change are powerful motivators for investors who want to make a difference in the world. But what happens when those values come into conflict with pressing national and global security concerns? This … Continue reading Is Ethical Investing Good for Our Security?
Targeted Support: The Pitfalls of Prioritising Investment Sales Over Personal Empowerment
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently acknowledged a harsh truth: their new "targeted support" measures won’t deliver "perfect advice" for everyone. The initiative aims to encourage more people to invest and take on long-term financial risks. But as we dig deeper, it becomes clear that this approach prioritises financial capital over human capital, raising significant … Continue reading Targeted Support: The Pitfalls of Prioritising Investment Sales Over Personal Empowerment
Regulatory Oversight or Industry Bias? A Consumer Champion’s Perspective on the FCA Debate
The recent report by the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on investment fraud and fairer financial services has ignited a critical debate about the effectiveness of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). As customer champions, we believe this discussion highlights systemic issues that cannot be ignored, especially when consumer trust and financial well-being are at stake. At … Continue reading Regulatory Oversight or Industry Bias? A Consumer Champion’s Perspective on the FCA Debate
CPD Masterclass: The Holistic Financial Planner
Workshop Content: The Holistic Financial PlannerDate: Wednesday, 11th DecemberTime: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM You are invited to a Zoom meeting.When: Dec 11, 2024 02:00 PM London Price: FREE. Register in advance for this meeting: REGISTER HERE > After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Welcome and Overview … Continue reading CPD Masterclass: The Holistic Financial Planner
Fair Value Assessments for Holistic Wealth Planners: A Practical Guide
Fair value is at the heart of delivering transparent, ethical, and client-focused financial planning services. For holistic wealth planners, especially those not bound by regulated adviser rules, understanding and implementing fair value assessments is essential to create accessible, personalised, and meaningful service offerings. Here’s a guide to structuring fair value assessments that resonate with clients … Continue reading Fair Value Assessments for Holistic Wealth Planners: A Practical Guide
Why Holistic Wealth Planners Can Benefit from Membership in a Professional Community
As the regulatory landscape for financial services evolves, non-FCA-regulated financial planners—referred to as holistic wealth planners—find themselves navigating a complex environment. While their work is distinct from that of FCA-authorised advisers, there are overlapping considerations, particularly around governance, transparency, and client outcomes. By joining a community of like-minded planners, holistic wealth planners can align with … Continue reading Why Holistic Wealth Planners Can Benefit from Membership in a Professional Community
Navigating the Boom-and-Bust Cycles of Regulation: Why Holistic Wealth Planning Matters More Than Ever
Regulation in financial services is a bit like the tide—it flows in and out, driven by economic and political currents. These boom-and-bust cycles of regulation impact everything from how your savings are managed to how financial institutions operate. At first glance, regulatory changes might seem distant or irrelevant, but they directly influence the financial well-being … Continue reading Navigating the Boom-and-Bust Cycles of Regulation: Why Holistic Wealth Planning Matters More Than Ever
Academy of Life Planning 