IFP splinter group could form if CISI merger fails financial planning

Carmen Reichman
clock

A group campaigning against the merger of the Institute of Financial Planning (IFP) and Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) has pulled out after discovering the IFP did not have enough money to continue going alone.

However the group's members have raised the possibility of creating a splinter group if the merged body neglects the IFP's focus on financial planning. Smart Financial's Steve Martin (pictured), who identified himself on Thursday as the author of the brief online campaign, said a recent discussion with IFP president Rebecca Taylor revealed the merger as the best option available to the body. Though the IFP recorded a surplus of more than £40,000 last year, and its CEO Steve Gazzard has declared the body is in the best financial position in its history, its attempts to build up reserve...

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

Targeted support signals evolution in advice delivery

Targeted support signals evolution in advice delivery

Softer launches expected at first

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 April 2026 • 1 min read
CII: Vulnerable client management is 'an opportunity for growth'

CII: Vulnerable client management is 'an opportunity for growth'

Firms can expand potential client bases

Isabel Baxter
clock 07 April 2026 • 2 min read
Common language used by advisers triggers anxiety and distrust among retirees

Common language used by advisers triggers anxiety and distrust among retirees

Product-led communication one of the biggest drivers of mistrust

Laura Purkess
clock 01 April 2026 • 1 min read