Don't look VAT in anger: Is the MPS trend here to stay?

VAT operational issues explored

clock • 4 min read

After HM Revenue & Customs indicated VAT may not be necessary on top of model portfolio services, DFMs have been racing to remove the charge from their propositions. However, Jon Yarker investigates what’s happening with the trend and whether the tax will return

Over the past 12 months, DFMs throughout the UK have been removing VAT from their model portfolio services (MPS). This is an industry-wide trend and, according to NextWealth research from December 2020, 14 firms out of a sample of 30 had removed this tax.  In addition, at that time a further six firms were actively reviewing the issue and, since those figures were gathered, a further three firms have ditched VAT on their MPS. This highlights a significant contrast from 2019, when NextWealth found all discretionary fund managers (DFMs) charged VAT (except for one that included this tax in...

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 Tax planning

'Good news' for Treasury as CGT receipts hit £21.5bn

'Good news' for Treasury as CGT receipts hit £21.5bn

Receipts reached £2.7bn in February 2026

clock 20 March 2026 • 2 min read
'No surprise' – IHT receipts rise with record year expected

'No surprise' – IHT receipts rise with record year expected

Hit £7.7bn for year to February

Jen Frost
clock 20 March 2026 • 3 min read
With IHT and EIS reform, 2026 is a transitional year for long term planning

With IHT and EIS reform, 2026 is a transitional year for long term planning

EIS 'enters the conversation with new prominence'

Moray Wright
clock 20 March 2026 • 4 min read