Latest Poll – Adviser Advocacy

Looming large at the start of 2023 is the prospect of a merged AFA/FPA adviser association that will represent the interests of its members for the ultimate benefit of the consumers they serve.

In the lead-up to the February member vote on the merger, which requires 75% approval from both associations, it’s been noted by FPA Chair, David Sharpe, following extensive member consultation in recent months, that effective advocacy is clearly the number one priority for members (see: FPA/AFA Merger Countdown). Do you agree?

Both associations have documented the key benefits that would be delivered by a merged adviser association, of which a stronger unified voice of advocacy for financial advisers is one element among others, which include:

• Education: Access to a wider range of resources, clarity on designations and more resources for CPD
• Community: More ways for members to engage with each other and with their association to receive the support they need
• Events: More scale, frequency and resourcing
• Professional standards: Supported through greater resourcing
• Member support services: More scale and resources to deliver greater services to members

While all these benefits that can be delivered by a merged adviser association would have value, does advocacy sit at the top of your list? Or would you rate assistance to help you build your advice business or advice proposition ahead of advocacy on your behalf?

As usual, we don’t hold the answers and neither do we have any agenda other than offering you the opportunity to have your say. Tell us what you think and we’ll report back next week…