More than a quarter of consumers are put off from seeking financial advice because of its cost, research suggests.

FSA proposals requiring advisers to demonstrate ongoing CPD in all core competencies, even if they do not operate in every area, discriminate against specialist intermediaries, AIFA says.

Sesame Bankhall Group chief operating officer Stephen Young has quit just a week after details of the platform proposition he headed were announced to members.

Transact says the proposed ban on cash rebates could lead to "unintended consequences" and consumer detriment and suggests the issue could be better dealt with through improved disclosure.

Despite the hegemony of the big three platforms there is still plenty of room for newer players to thrive, according to research house Fundscape.

Succession has hit out at firms purchasing IFA businesses merely to increase funds under management, warning advisers themselves are hugely undervalued in the current climate.

Ascentric has announced a new charging structure as it looks to reach out to advisers placing lower value cases on the platform.

Pressure is growing on the government-appointed Independent Commission on Banking to ease off on banking reform, with leading accountants and banking organisations calling on the government to "think again" and avoid "systemic reduction" in bank profitability....

The FSA today said in its long-awaited consultation paper platforms can continue to receive rebates from fund managers.

IFA technology partner Parmenion has taken over the management of Investment Risk Profiler from Silent Partner.