Technology

Smaller platforms face a "long, hard slog" to get "anywhere near" the top three players who continue to dominate the market, says The Platforum.

Ascentric's Hugo Thorman is "hopeful" cash rebates will be maintained for platforms and thinks the solution lies in convincing fund managers to reduce their charges.

Software provider Prestwood is to host a series of masterclasses to introduce comprehensive financial planning to advisers.

Cofunds has told a direct to consumer partner service to remove "aggressive" marketing literature which attempted to lure clients away from the platform with the promise of full commission rebates.

Skandia says it will hold off on developing an unbundled charging model until the FSA clarifies its cash rebate rules.

TISA has issued an industry-wide Service Level Agreement which will allow platform providers to start piloting their re-registration procedures.

Capita Financial Software has launched a new version of Synaptic Comparator - its platform comparison and due diligence service for advisers.

Justin Lowes, managing director of Lowes Wealth Management, examines platform charging pre- and post-RDR.

The term ‘fund supermarket' is redundant, outdated and misleading and confuses the real debate about which platforms provide the best service and execution, Cofunds says.

Aviva is replacing the annual management fee on its wrap with a lower flat charge for ISAs and collective investments.