Join us for a special episode of the Money Marketing Podcast as we delve into the world of adviser development with Gee Footit, Senior Manager - Partnerships at St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy, the proud winners of the 'Best Adviser Academy' award at the 2023 Money Marketing Awards. Discover the secrets behind their success, gain insights into their innovative curriculum and mentorship programs, and explore the future of financial advice with this inspiring conversation. Tune in to learn how the St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy is shaping the next generation of financial advisers and empowering them to make a positive difference in the lives of their clients.

 

Don't forget to book your table for the 2024 Money Marketing Awards! Join us in celebrating excellence in the financial advice profession and connect with the industry's leading lights.

In this Weekend Essay, Tom Browne takes a nostalgic yet cynical look at the Oasis reunion, questioning the motives behind it and whether the band can recapture their former glory. Join us as we delve into the complexities of Britpop nostalgia, the economics of reunions, and the unanswered questions surrounding this highly anticipated comeback. Can Oasis still deliver the magic, or is this just a cynical cash grab? Tune in to find out!

In this Weekend Essay episode, Lois Vallely delves into the often overlooked world of fund naming. Inspired by her childhood love of naming pets, she contrasts the creativity in naming animals with the rigid, sometimes dull world of investment fund names. Vallely explores why fund names are often so plain, the role they play in investor decisions, and whether a touch of creativity could benefit—or confuse—the financial world. Tune in to discover why naming a fund might not be as fun as naming your cat, but is just as important.

 

In this episode of "In Conversation With...", host Kimberley Dondo sits down with Phil Bray, Founder and Director of The Yardstick Agency. With nearly three decades in the financial services industry, Phil shares insights from his career journey, exploring how his diverse roles have shaped his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing financial advisors today.

 

Phil discusses significant industry changes in marketing and client engagement, strategies for leveraging digital tools, and common marketing misconceptions. He also addresses current trends, including the impact of new regulations, technologies, and client expectations, as well as the cost-of-living crisis. Phil offers valuable advice on incorporating financial well-being into practices and differentiating human advisors in the age of robo-advisors and AI. Tune in for an insightful conversation blending industry expertise with practical advice.

Join us for a jam-packed episode of MM Talks with Kimberley Dondo and Lois Vallely. We'll dissect the Consumer Duty's impact on financial advisors, break down the financial implications of Labour's recent win, and explore the latest industry trends. Plus, get valuable tips on managing financial stress and boosting well-being. Don't miss our "Financial Fails" segment for a laugh!

 

In this heartfelt essay, Amanda Newman Smith reflects on the profound impact of losing her father 20 years ago, coinciding with the anniversary of Green Day's album "American Idiot." She shares her emotional journey through grief, the unexpected ways it shaped her life, and the importance of emotional support and financial planning during such times. Amanda discusses how her stepdad brought new experiences to her and her mother, the complexities of family dynamics after a loss, and the critical role advisers play in guiding clients through bereavement. Tune in now:

In this episode of In Conversation With..., embark on an inspiring journey with host Kimberley Dondo and guest James Wallis, Founder & Chartered Financial Planner at Aristotle Financial Planning as he shares his transformation from financial professional to successful entrepreneur. Discover the key moments that ignited his passion for starting his own firm, the invaluable support he received from The Verve Foundation's Adviser Incubator, and the practical strategies he implemented to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

In this special episode of the Money Marketing podcast, we sit down with Jamie Sexton, Director of Client Servicing at True Potential, the proud recipient of the Best Retirement Advice Firm award at the 2023 Money Marketing Awards. Discover the secrets behind their client-centric approach, innovative strategies, and commitment to empowering retirees to achieve their financial dreams. Gain valuable insights into industry trends, the future of retirement planning, and the importance of building strong partnerships with clients. Whether you're an industry professional or an individual planning for your own retirement, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration. Tune in and learn from the best in the business:

 

And don't forget to mark your calendars for the 2024 Money Marketing Awards! Book your table now and be part of the celebration of excellence in the financial services industry.

In his Weekend’s Essay, Dan Cooper takes a hard look at the reality of summer holidays in 2024. With skyrocketing costs and post-Covid price hikes, many families are finding that a sunny getaway is simply out of reach. Dan questions the fairness of rising fines for term-time absences while holiday providers continue to push prices higher. Is it time to rethink the way we approach family holidays? Tune in now: 

In this In Conversation With... episode, Kimberley Dondo as she talks with Cathy Brennan, Senior Financial Planner at Knightsbridge Wealth Management, about her transition from adviser to business owner. Cathy shares her experiences with The Verve Foundation's Adviser Incubator and discusses the importance of setting boundaries with herself and clients, embracing authenticity, and finding her niche. Listen now:

Join us on this episode of The Money Marketing Awards Podcast as we chat with Scott Daniels, Co-Founder of PLUS Group, about their award-winning paraplanning service. Discover what sets their service apart, how they deliver exceptional value to financial advisors, and their insights on future industry trends. Tune in to hear Scott’s thoughts on industry awards, technology adoption, and how they’re shaping the future of paraplanning.

 

Don't miss this year's awards and book your table now!

In her Weekend Essay, Kimberley Dondo delves into a cautionary tale from Reddit about how one couple’s financial secrets nearly derailed their future. Discover why open communication and professional advice are essential in relationships, especially when money is involved.

Listen now: Weekend Essay: When ‘what’s mine is yours’ goes wrong.

 

In this episode of In Conversation With..., host Kimberley Dondo sits down with Oli Brown, Investment Director at RC Brown Investment Management, to explore why the UK market is entering a prime period for investment. They discuss the resurgence of IPOs and fundraising, the potential growth in the AIM market, and how investors can leverage these opportunities for long-term gains. Oli also shares insights on inheritance tax planning and how advisors can guide their clients in navigating this dynamic landscape.

 

In this episode of the Money Marketing Awards Podcast, host Kimberley Dondo sits down with Hayley Rabbets, Head of the Verve Foundation and winner of the 2023 Charity Champion of the Year award. Hayley shares the journey that led to her organization's recognition, highlighting key initiatives and the essential factors behind their success. The discussion also explores the future of social responsibility in financial services, the role of technology in charitable giving, and how industry recognition can inspire excellence. Tune in to learn how Hayley and her team are making a real difference in the sector.

Join Kimberley Dondo in conversation with Jo Wall, Founder of Joyful Wealth, who shares her inspiring journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur with the help of the Verve Foundation's incubator program. Discover how Jo launched her own firm and how she believes financial advice and coaching can empower clients. Tune in now:

In this week’s Weekend Essay, Dan Cooper dives into the growing trend of football clubs partnering with high-risk CFD trading firms. Are clubs prioritising profit over fans? Should there be better regulation to protect supporters from risky financial products? Tune in as we explore the dark side of the beautiful game and its sponsorship deals.

Listen now!

In this In Conversation With... episode, Kimberley Dondo chats with Rory Albon, founder of Albon Financial Planning. Rory shares his journey to launch his firm and his approach to investment optimisation, retirement planning, and financial well-being. He offers insights into balancing saving and investing, managing tax efficiency, and safeguarding assets through tailored insurance solutions. Rory also discusses his vision for his firm's future and offers invaluable advice for fellow financial advisers looking to start their businesses. Tune in now:

In this Weekend Essay, Amanda Newman Smith shares a personal story highlighting the importance of excellent customer service, especially when dealing with vulnerable clients. She contrasts negative experiences with a paint company and a clock supplier against a positive resolution with NatWest bank when assisting her elderly mother. This episode underscores the significance of empathy, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving in building trust and loyalty.

Join Kimberley Dondo in conversation with Rachel Edwards, a Financial Planner who took the leap from a successful career to launch her own firm. Hear about Rachel's inspiring journey through The Verve Foundation's Adviser Incubator, the "aha" moments that solidified her entrepreneurial path, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. Gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a business in the financial advice industry, and discover how Rachel's firm is uniquely positioned to address the pressing needs of today's clients. Listen now:

 

In this episode of In Conversation With… James Tucker, founder and CEO of Twenty7Tec, talks to host Lois Vallely about his journey in the mortgage and wealth tech space.

They discuss the challenges of scaling tech businesses and the evolving customer expectations, especially among younger generations, who demand seamless, technology-driven experiences.

 

Tucker believes that the industry’s disjointed tech landscape needs better integration to serve advisers and customers more effectively.

He also talks about the recent £16.5m investment from BGF, to help Twenty7tec expand its services and talent to drive future growth and acquisitions.

 

In this episode of the Money Marketing Awards podcast, Kimberley Dondo sits down with Sebastian Field, Associate Financial Planner at Attivo and winner of the Financial Adviser 2B category at the 2023 Money Marketing Awards.

Sebastian shares actionable tips for those starting out, from building essential skills to forging valuable industry connections. Whether you're a student, a career-changer, or simply curious about the field, this episode provides a wealth of insights to help you navigate your own path to success.

In this Weekend Essay, Lois Vallely explores her own financial red flags and how they might impact relationships. From keeping finances separate to the importance of financial transparency, Lois delves into how money habits can influence our personal lives. Discover the surprising results from Ford Money's survey and why discussing finances openly can be crucial for future stability. Tune in to hear more:

In this episode of In Conversation With… M&G Wealth Advice managing director Tom Hegarty and Money Marketing chief reporter Lois Vallely talk about the sharp decline in the number of UK financial advisers, from over 200,000 in the 1980s to just over 31,000 today.

To address these challenges, Hegarty highlights several initiatives aimed at attracting new talent to the profession. He discusses the role of academies and apprenticeships, as well as initiatives like Future Financial Adviser and the New Talent Alliance, in providing training and development opportunities for aspiring financial advisers.

He also stresses the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity within the sector to enhance its reputation and appeal to new entrants.

In this week's Weekend Essay, editor Tom Browne dives into one of our biggest fears: public speaking. From awkward job interviews to addressing packed rooms, Tom reflects on his journey from shyness to confidence, and how mastering public speaking can be a game-changer in both personal and professional life. Tune in now: 

In this episode of the Weekend Essay podcast, Lois Vallely recounts her experience with a recent email hack and discusses the growing prevalence of phishing scams. She highlights the vulnerabilities financial firms face and shares practical advice on protecting sensitive information better. Join Lois as she emphasizes the importance of being aware of cyber risks and adopting proactive measures to ensure cybersecurity in both personal and professional settings. Listen now:

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo talks with William Marshall, CIO and Head of Wealth Investment at Hymans Robertson Investment Services. They dive into key topics like sequencing risk, debunking longevity myths, and how Hymans Robertson's holistic approach supports clients in retirement. William also addresses how the Consumer Duty has shaped the focus on value for money, the balance between passive and active investing, and the role of factor investing in portfolio design. Tune in for essential insights on navigating the current market and regulatory landscape.

Join Kimberley Dondo, Lois Vallely and Tom Browne from the Money Marketing team for the third episode of MM Talks! This episode explores the FCA’s consolidation review, and speculation of the upcoming budget’s impact on financial advisers, and shares chillingly true finance horror stories from the internet! Listen now:

In this episode of The Weekend Essay, Amanda Newman Smith discusses the challenge of balancing old clients while attracting new ones. She compares the marketing of The Cure’s new album with the financial advice industry, noting the importance of evolving without losing loyal customers. Amanda also highlights the difficulties young advisers face entering the field, as firms often hesitate to hire them due to their limited experience. She argues that supporting younger talent is crucial for the future of the profession and maintaining a healthy client base. Listen now:

 

In this episode of In Conversation With..., host Kimberley Dondo chats with Julie Greenwood from Octopus Money and Hayley Rabbets from The Verve Foundation about closing the advice gap through industry collaboration. They discuss achieving tangible outcomes, balancing altruism with commercial goals, and why a family-centric approach is key to modern financial advice. Learn how these partnerships can shape the future of financial education and inclusion.

In this Weekend Essay episode, Momodou Musa Touray dives deep into the growing issue of scams. With more people falling victim to fraud every day, he shares personal stories and alarming statistics, highlighting that scams can ensnare even the savviest individuals.

As we recognise Scams Awareness Week, it's time to examine how prepared we really are to protect ourselves. Are you doing enough to guard against these threats? Tune in to find out!

Join Kimberley Dondo, Digital Content Manager at Money Marketing, as she sits down with Jordan Sriharan, Fund Manager at Canada Life Asset Management, for a critical discussion on navigating the current market landscape.

In this episode, Jordan delves into the evolving economic outlook, highlighting key adjustments to his original projections in light of recent developments. We'll examine the impact of global trends on the UK market and explore strategies for mitigating risk in this uncertain environment.

This conversation offers valuable insights for financial advisors looking to:

• Understand the significance of global economic trends in the UK market.

• Develop strategies for navigating market volatility.

• Identify potential opportunities for UK investors.

• Prepare for key considerations in the second half of the year.

• Stay informed and adapt their strategies in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Tune in to hear Jordan's expert insights and actionable takeaways to help you confidently guide your clients through these turbulent times.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves' first Budget as chancellor was one of the most anticipated in recent history. And there are no shortage of talking points, from rises in capital gains tax and national insurance contributions for employers to pensions being brought into the scope of inheritance tax. To discuss this and more, editor Tom Browne is joined by Ian Cook from Quilter Cheviot, Chris Jones from Dynamic Planner and Patrick Ingram from Parmenion.

In this episode of In Conversation With..., host Kimberley Dondo sits down with Zoë Dagless, Director & Chartered Financial Planner at Meliora Financial Planning, to explore her inspiring journey from financial adviser to founder. Zoë shares her pivotal experiences within The Verve Foundation's Adviser Incubator, revealing the support, mentorship, and key insights that empowered her leap into entrepreneurship. From initial apprehensions to ‘aha’ moments, personal growth, and future ambitions, Zoë offers valuable advice for any financial professional considering their own entrepreneurial path. Tune in for an honest look at what it takes to build a purposeful, client-centred financial firm.

 

In this week's Weekend Essay, news editor Dan Cooper shares his incredible journey over the past year at Money Marketing. From breaking major news stories to navigating the fast-paced world of finance, Dan reflects on personal highlights, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. Discover his thoughts on the sector's future and the exciting opportunities ahead.

Tune in now:

In this deeply personal episode, Dan Cooper reflects on the recent loss of his beloved grandfather and the lessons it taught him about having those difficult but vital conversations about death.

From inheritance planning to creating a will, Dan shares why discussing end-of-life wishes is an act of love and how it can bring peace of mind to families during challenging times. Listen now: 

Kimberley Dondo, digital content manager at Money Marketing, chats with Catriona McInally, Investment Specialist at M&G Wealth, about the complexities of long-term investing in today's market. They explore how advisers can guide clients through volatility, prioritise "real" returns over short-term gains, and adapt strategies in a changing investment landscape.

Tune in for valuable insights on empowering clients to achieve their long-term financial goals.

In this week's Weekend Essay, Tom Browne reflects on what lessons the media can learn from the US election results and the UK Budget. From over-sensationalising political outcomes to the dangers of guessing in the absence of solid policies, Tom discusses how a more informed, sober approach is needed in today's media landscape. Should the media focus less on polarisation and more on understanding voter behaviour? Tune in to find out.

 

Join Digital Content Manager Kimberley Dondo as she speaks with Shelley Read, Senior Protection Technical Manager at Royal London, on everything income protection (IP). Shelley answers key questions: What exactly is IP? Why is it critical for financial resilience? And how can advisers ensure clients are properly covered? From navigating underwriting to understanding client needs, this episode covers practical guidance for advisers on IP and reducing the risk of unpaid claims. In association with Royal London, tune in to explore how IP can safeguard lifestyles against income loss.

And if you’d like any further resources or support to help grow your business and deliver value for your clients, visit: adviser.royallondon.com/PeoplePowered

Join host Kimberley Dondo on In Conversation With... as she interviews Matt Evans, Portfolio Manager for Ninety One’s UK Sustainable Equity Fund. They discuss the compelling case for UK equities, market trends, the evolving IPO landscape, and how sustainability drives value. Learn how the GB ISA could reshape investment and why top holdings like AstraZeneca and Unilever are central to the fund’s strategy.

Tune in now:

 

In this Weekend Essay, Tom Browne reflects on the art of apologising in financial services, spotlighting recent cases from Aegon UK and the PFS. He examines why some apologies resonate while others fall flat, the fine line between sincerity and damage control, and why saying sorry can be a powerful act of strength.

Listen now:

 

In this podcast, editor Tom Browne is joined by Roderic Rennison, founder and partner of Catalyst Partners and Money Marketing columnist, to discuss buying, selling and consolidation post-Budget in the financial advice space.

Among the topics discussed are changes to business asset disposal relief (BADR), the attractiveness of the UK to private equity (PE) firms, and why “the tax tail should not wag the deal dog”.

Warren Buffett's journey from a paperboy to one of the most celebrated investors of all time is nothing short of extraordinary. In this Weekend Essay, Chief Reporter Lois Vallely takes us through the principles that define the “Oracle of Omaha’s” success, including his focus on proven businesses, strong management, and disciplined, long-term investing strategies.

Listen now: 

In this episode of In Conversation With, host Lois Vallely sits down with Sarah Coles, head of cyber and resilience at Parmenion, to explore the growing landscape of cybersecurity threats and practical defences.

Coles draws on over a decade of experience to talk about the alarming rise in cyberattacks targeting businesses of all sizes, fuelled by automated bots and evolving tactics like phishing, malicious websites, and ransomware.

She urges advice business owners to implement layered security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, strong password practices with password managers, and regular system updates.

The conversation also examines the challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI, which enable sophisticated scams, including deepfakes.

In this episode of In Conversation With…, Kimberley Dondo speaks with Kate Rainbow, Head of Key Accounts at Hymans Robertson Investment Services. They discuss how Consumer Duty is reshaping the advice industry, from the rise of outsourcing to ensure sustainable income to understanding the manufacturer versus distributor distinction. Kate also explains the importance of scenario testing, evidencing value for money, and ongoing compliance strategies.

Listen now to discover how firms can adapt and thrive under the new regulations.

In this week’s Weekend Essay, Amanda Newman Smith reflects on Disability History Month, exploring assumptions about people and how these can shape perspectives. From her personal anecdotes to insights from the ITV show Unfiltered Women, Amanda highlights the importance of listening to diverse voices. What can we learn by looking past first impressions? Tune in to this thought-provoking episode for a deeper understanding of empathy, resilience, and inclusion.

 

In this week's Weekend Essay episode, Amanda Newman Smith reflects on hope, generosity, and George Kinder’s vision for trustworthy institutions. Can we rise above self-interest to create lasting change?

Listen now:

In this episode, Kim Dondo chats with Madeleine Debney, Co-Founder of Otto, about her shift from asset management to developing an AI-powered platform for wealth managers. They discuss how Otto supports advisers by streamlining workflows, automating tasks like fact finds and suitability reports, and enhancing client relationships.

Madeleine also shares insights into Otto’s evolution, its approach to compliance, and her vision for the role of AI in financial services.

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo speaks with Vanguard’s Sebastian Lewis and Anna Madamba about a critical but often overlooked topic: cognitive decline in clients. Together, they explore how financial advisers can recognise early signs, address the risks of wealth loss, and navigate sensitive conversations with clients and their families. They also share practical steps for preparation, insights into generational perspectives, and ways to safeguard vulnerable individuals from financial exploitation. This thought-provoking discussion highlights the evolving role of advisers in supporting clients through one of life’s most challenging transitions.

As 2024 wraps up, the Money Marketing editorial team reflects on the year's biggest stories, key trends, and the lessons that will shape the industry in 2025. Don't miss this insightful and engaging roundup—listen now:

 

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo, Digital Content Manager, is joined by Rohit Vaish, President & Co-founder, and Amal Jolly, CEO of Saturn AI. They explore how Saturn AI is transforming wealth management by streamlining operations, enhancing compliance, and maximising underutilised data.

Discover how this cutting-edge platform automates processes, simplifies back-office systems, and delivers a “single source of truth” for financial advisers. Rohit and Amal also share insights into AI advancements, data security, and Saturn’s forward-looking vision for the industry.