Ask insistent clients to put it in writing, advisers urged

Carmen Reichman
clock

Clients insisting on going against their adviser's recommendations should be asked to put their instructions in writing to show they are aware of the risks, a compliance officer at support services provider SimplyBiz has suggested.

Richard Nuttall (pictured) said advisers should ask their clients to fully outline their instructions and pen a signed note stating they are aware the transaction goes against the advice given. "Something as important as this really needs to be in their own handwriting," he said. Simply asking a client to sign a typed statement offers inadequate protection as it may not prove the customer understands their actions, he added. So-called 'insistent clients' are those who instruct their adviser to carry out a transaction against his or her advice. The term has gained traction as a r...

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

FCA expected to align trail commission with Consumer Duty rather than 'switching off' service

FCA expected to align trail commission with Consumer Duty rather than 'switching off' service

Consultation is about ‘understanding and evidencing impact’

Sophia Panayi
clock 09 April 2026 • 4 min read
'Slow start' expected for targeted support as rules go live

'Slow start' expected for targeted support as rules go live

Royal London one of the first to get FCA approval

Sophia Panayi
clock 07 April 2026 • 4 min read
Former financial adviser hit with FCA ban after pocketing £54,000 from 'vulnerable' client

Former financial adviser hit with FCA ban after pocketing £54,000 from 'vulnerable' client

Daniel Leon Williams banned from regulated activities after being sentenced in 2024

Sophia Panayi
clock 07 April 2026 • 1 min read