Quilter Financial Planning, the financial advice network of Quilter, has added Belfast-based PHW Wealth Partners as its latest appointed representative firm, to strengthen its presence in Northern Ireland.

Nearly three million workers are at risk of losing out when paying extra into their workplace pensions by receiving no additional employer contributions but being hit with fees.

The average ongoing advice fee has climbed 9 basis points from 2023, according to a new fee benchmarking report from wealth consultants NextWealth.

Private equity firm HSQ has today confirmed its unconditional offer to buy the remaining 10% shares of the troubled Financial Planning business Kingswood and said it hopes to conclude the deal by 15 April.

The FCA has set out its next steps on Consumer Duty, publishing proposals that aim to simplify communications about savings accounts.

The FCA has launched a new five-year strategy which it hopes will deepen trust in financial services, rebalance risk, support growth and improve lives. 

The FCA is seeking a £22,500 a year chair for its Smaller Business Panel which often advises the regulator on issues affecting financial advice firms.

Pensions and Sipp consultancy Barnett Waddingham has been acquired by insurance intermediary and benefits firm Howden for an undisclosed sum.

One in eight people intending to purchase an annuity would not consider switching from their existing pension provider to another supplier, even if they could potentially gain additional retirement income.

Salary expectations in the Financial Planning profession are climbing after the sector experienced notable growth last year - but nearly half of professionals say they are still undervalued.