Behind the portal

PORTALS

Professional Adviser
clock

As technology develops and becomes more sophisticated, portals have become essential tools in the daily life of an IFA. Johanna Gornitzki takes a closer look at how they work

As intermediaries entered the 1990s, they not only witnessed the development of more refined products but also saw the dawn of an important tool; the portal. In the past, intermediaries wishing to obtain a quote for a specific product would have to phone up various life offices. While this may have been a somewhat more intimate way of liasing with insurers, it was a time-consuming way of gathering information. Luckily for advisers, a number of providers acknowledged this, and after a bit of tinkering, the first portal was eventually developed in 1991. Launched by The Exchange, this ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

What does 2026 hold for investment?

What does 2026 hold for investment?

‘The disruptors of yesterday are now the establishment’

Jen Frost
clock 17 December 2025 • 3 min read
FCA launches trio of crypto consultations as UK interest nears tipping point

FCA launches trio of crypto consultations as UK interest nears tipping point

Consumer protection and innovation

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 16 December 2025 • 2 min read
Cryptoasset legislation in UK to come into force in 2027

Cryptoasset legislation in UK to come into force in 2027

Consumer protection

Cristian Angeloni
clock 15 December 2025 • 1 min read