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

Partner Insight: Strategic flexibility meets value discipline

Partner Insight: Strategic flexibility meets value discipline

Combining long-term positioning with tactical agility delivers alpha while navigating concentrated equity leadership and shifting global opportunities, says Keith Balmer, Senior Economist, Multi Asset team, Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments
clock 28 January 2026 • 10 min read
Advisers urged to rethink what multi-asset 'really means'

Advisers urged to rethink what multi-asset 'really means'

As portfolio concentration and volatility risks rise

Isabel Baxter
clock 27 January 2026 • 2 min read
Partner Insight: Navigating 2026's investment landscape amid AI expansion and rising risks

Partner Insight: Navigating 2026's investment landscape amid AI expansion and rising risks

The outlook for 2026 looks positive, but downside risks are becoming more complex, says Robert Plant, Portfolio Manager, Multi Asset Solutions, Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Robert Plant, Portfolio Manager, Multi Asset Solutions, Columbia Threadneedle Investments.
clock 15 January 2026 • 5 min read