After the Financial Services Act, it was widely expected that tied agents, as opposed to IFAs would vastly increase their market share and that with an alleged lower cost-base, Bancassurers in particular, would enjoy renewed competitive advantage. Through the polarisation of these two distinct distribution routes, independent advice has actually grown in popularity, and looks sets to enjoy a profitable future. With PIA-regulated IFAs responsible for in excess of 50% of UK life assurance and personal pension business, a more upmarket profile is emphasised by their greater success in selling investment bonds and tax efficient investments.

After the Financial Services Act, it was widely expected that tied agents, as opposed to IFAs would vastly increase their market share and that with an alleged lower cost-base, Bancassurers in particular, would enjoy renewed competitive advantage. Through the polarisation of these two distinct distribution routes, independent advice has actually grown in popularity, and looks sets to enjoy a profitable future. With PIA-regulated IFAs responsible for in excess of 50% of UK life assurance and personal pension business, a more upmarket profile is emphasised by their greater success in selling investment bonds and tax efficient investments.

While one-stop shopping may be the aim of financial services providers, are consumers sceptical about placing all of their financial dealings in one location? IFA Distribution analyses consumer attitudes towards independent advice, and reviews where to obtain it and how much to pay for it. In interviewing representatives from a range of leading life insurance companies, IFA Distribution highlights a growing professionalism and product specialisation from providers and determines whether branding will assume an increasing importance in the industry. This report also presents an exclusive re-analysis of the Matrix-Data Ltd. database, showing the detailed mix of products sold by different kinds of independent intermediary, the first time such IFA specific data has been published. Will better communication aid consumer confidence and how can communication channels be improved? Would e-commerce benefit larger IFAs? These and other questions are answered in IFA Distribution.