Three quarters of IFAs determined to stay independent - survey

Carmen Reichman
clock

Around three quarters of IFAs plan to stay independent despite a tougher stance from the regulator on the definition of independent advice, according to an industry survey.

Financial services consultancy Harrison Spence Partnership's IFA View Survey found 15% of IFAs intend to become restricted in the next year, while a further 5% will become restricted within the next year and 6% within three years. The figures fly in the face of widely held expectations that there would be a rush to become restricted among IFAs post-Retail Distribution Review (RDR) to avoid the extra requirements necessary to remain independent, such as the need to be prepared to advise on unregualted collective investment schemes. However while managing partner Brian Spence called the...

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 Regulation

FCA's targeted support rules set to take effect from April 2026

FCA's targeted support rules set to take effect from April 2026

Regulator plans to open application gateway for firms in March

Isabel Baxter
clock 11 December 2025 • 5 min read
FCA sets out plans to simplify complaints regime

FCA sets out plans to simplify complaints regime

Including requirement for firms to report complaints involving vulnerable clients

Isabel Baxter
clock 04 December 2025 • 2 min read
FCA looks to boost transparency of ESG ratings providers

FCA looks to boost transparency of ESG ratings providers

Regulator opens consultation

Michael Nelson
clock 01 December 2025 • 2 min read