Independent financial advisers (IFAs) are entering the next 12 months with confidence and a clear focus on growth, according to new research from ValidPath, the independent advice network.
The survey, building on findings from ValidPath’s inaugural pulse survey in February, shows 70% of IFAs are positive about their business outlook, up four percentage points since the start of the year.
More than half are targeting revenue growth of 30% or more, with 41% aiming for increases of 50% or higher.
Attracting new clients (84%) and growing assets under management (65%) are the top priorities.
To achieve this, advisers are focusing on social media and marketing, strengthening introducer relationships, expanding teams and exploring client-book acquisitions.
Many also highlighted the importance of access to dedicated business development support.
The research shows firms are also positioning for the long term by attracting younger, higher-net-worth clients, reassessing client profitability and adapting service models to embrace remote servicing.
Laura Handy, ValidPath’s succession development manager, said: “It is great to see IFAs so focused on growth and confident about the future.
“Being part of a modern network like ValidPath gives IFAs the tools and support they need to achieve their ambitions.
“With access to on-demand services, technology, succession planning, client acquisition and peer best practice, advisers can focus on clients while building long-term business value.”
