Is the DFM cost war in danger of leaving suitability behind?

'Vanilla products with little differentiation'

clock • 7 min read

As cost competition intensifies in the discretionary fund manager (DFM) market, Jon Yarker explores whether there is a risk of client service being negatively impacted as a result...

Over the past few years DFMs have capitalised on a growing demand for outsourcing investment functions from advisers. The advantages for those using this route are clear: for a fee they can offload the burden of investment, and the significant time and resources this requires, to a third party. The adviser can then focus on their core responsibilities, namely providing financial planning and advice to their client bank. Unsurprisingly, the DFM space has grown significantly as a result and competition has intensified between these players. To thrive in this flourishing market, DFMs need t...

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 Multi-Asset

Wren Sterling's DFM arm launches trio of multi-asset funds

Wren Sterling's DFM arm launches trio of multi-asset funds

‘Complements’ its MPS range

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 September 2025 • 2 min read
Timeline puts multi-asset fund to market following FCA approval

Timeline puts multi-asset fund to market following FCA approval

Launch intended to ‘simplify investing for advisers’

Isabel Baxter
clock 04 September 2025 • 1 min read
Multi-Asset and MPS Roadshow: Join us in a town or city near you!

Multi-Asset and MPS Roadshow: Join us in a town or city near you!

Hear from Aberdeen Investments, Downing, Rathbones, Aviva Investors and Quilter

Professional Adviser
clock 13 August 2025 • 1 min read