AIFA: 'free riders' are sabotaging our mission

clock

AIFA policy director Chris Hannant has criticised 'free rider' advisers who back the trade body's efforts and benefit from its work, but don't want to pay for membership.

Hannant, who has been with the organisation since January, said a number of IFAs choose not to become members because they reap the rewards of its successes regardless of whether they have joined the organisation. "It is true, on a straight factual basis, that if there is a rule change it will apply to all [advisers, not just AIFA members]," Hannant said. "It's the old free rider problem. AIFA is stronger the more members it has, and the more effective and the more of a voice it has. If we have too many free riders there won't be much benefit." "It's a cynical view that [advisers] ...

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 Regulation

Pension experts supportive of VfM proposals but warn 'challenges remain'

Pension experts supportive of VfM proposals but warn 'challenges remain'

Responses to consultation on VfM framework for DC schemes

Holly Roach
clock 10 March 2026 • 6 min read
FCA finfluencer enforcement action increases 174% in 2025

FCA finfluencer enforcement action increases 174% in 2025

FOI findings come as regulators ramp up online crackdown

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 February 2026 • 3 min read
TISA urges FCA to rethink targeted support fees and levies proposals

TISA urges FCA to rethink targeted support fees and levies proposals

Could ‘undermine’ the aims of targeted support

Isabel Baxter
clock 12 January 2026 • 2 min read