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

FOS reveals next phase of reforms

FOS reveals next phase of reforms

Including new powers to dismiss certain cases

Isabel Baxter
clock 11 August 2026 • 3 min read
Court sets trial date in illegal financial promotions case

Court sets trial date in illegal financial promotions case

Lucy Beck pleads not guilty

Sophia Panayi
clock 31 July 2026 • 1 min read
FCA flags weak customer outcome focus in firms' monitoring frameworks

FCA flags weak customer outcome focus in firms' monitoring frameworks

Consumer Duty review found inconsistent governance and oversight

Sophia Panayi
clock 27 July 2026 • 2 min read