'Forensic economists' find IFAs generate just 2% industry revenue

Scott Sinclair
clock

Independent advisers generate just a tiny portion of the total net revenue produced by the industry yet contribute a far larger chunk of its annual costs, an economics team has found.

The initial estimates of a ‘forensic economics' business hired by AIFA to scrutinise the FSA's budget found the net revenues of IFA firms represent about 2% of the income of the financial markets regulated by FSA. However, it concludes advisory firms pay 25% of the regulator's total costs. "IFAs are therefore burdened with a disproportionate and unfair share of the costs of regulation which are ultimately and inevitably met by consumers," AIFA policy director Andrew Strange says. The findings of the forensic economists will form part of AIFA's response to the FSA's consultation on ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Wealth managers turn to private markets to offset geopolitical risks

Wealth managers turn to private markets to offset geopolitical risks

60% allocation in 2025

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 23 January 2026 • 1 min read
Copia launches smoothed managed portfolio range with Wesleyan

Copia launches smoothed managed portfolio range with Wesleyan

Copia Select Smoothed portfolios

Sahar Nazir
clock 22 January 2026 • 2 min read
Advertising watchdog upholds complaints against whiskey investment business

Advertising watchdog upholds complaints against whiskey investment business

Advertising watchdog upholds complaints against Whiskey & Wealth Club

Sahar Nazir
clock 21 January 2026 • 2 min read