Adviser businesses invested in robo 'more valuable' - Ian McKenna

Acquirers look to exploit data

Hannah Godfrey
clock • 2 min read

Investing in a digital system or implementing a robo-advice capability means advisers can sell their business for significantly more money, according to Digital Wealth Insights director Ian McKenna.

Speaking at the latest Space 01 'Money Talks' seminar, McKenna (pictured) said it had been suggested to him there was "zero value" in paper-based advice companies. That, he argued, should provide "a strong incentive" to older advisers nearing retirement who might otherwise consider robo-advice unnecessary or advanced back-office digitalisation an annoyance. "To me, a digital enterprise is one where all the information and the records are electronic," he added. "It's a massive investment - anybody selling a business obviously wants to get the maximum return for it but the more you do to e...

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 Technology

Firm launches AI-powered SIPP integration project

Firm launches AI-powered SIPP integration project

Centology integrates the Pathlines Pensions SIPP form into CRM

Sophia Panayi
clock 05 June 2026 • 1 min read
Transact upgrades API to improve adviser software integration

Transact upgrades API to improve adviser software integration

Supports firms with CRM‑led workflows and increasingly digital advice journeys

Sophia Panayi
clock 04 June 2026 • 2 min read
Rosemount financial promotions tool built to get ahead of 'AI-generated nonsense'

Rosemount financial promotions tool built to get ahead of 'AI-generated nonsense'

Average financial promotion approval turnaround time of one hour

Sophia Panayi
clock 02 June 2026 • 3 min read