Advisers brace for client questions as UK votes 'leave'

'Business as usual' expectations now to be tested

Nicola Brittain
clock • 2 min read

Financial advisers are set to face a flurry of client questions and fluctuating markets in the short term following the United Kingdom's decision to leave the European Union (EU) in yesterday's referendum.

The 'leave' campaign won by 52% of the votes to 48%, on a turn-out of almost 72%. Yesterday markets and sterling had both been rallying in expectation of a narrow vote in favour of remaining in the EU. The shock decision has caused sterling to fall by more than 10% to trade at $1.338, down from $1.487 yesterday, and investment experts to warn of unstable market and economic conditions that could last up to five years. Markets had been pricing in some possibility of an exit but many investors believe there will still be considerable downside for UK equities. Billionaire investor George...

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 Economics / Markets

OBR chair says leak could have come from 'external person'

OBR chair says leak could have come from 'external person'

OBR faces scrutiny after key document shared before Budget

Jen Frost
clock 27 November 2025 • 2 min read
Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

OBR report released in 'unprecedented leak'

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 26 November 2025 • 1 min read
Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

High Value Council Tax Surcharge in place from April 2028

Jen Frost
clock 26 November 2025 • 2 min read