Covid-19 pandemic hits advice sector as planners report 20% revenue drop - research

Smaller firms hardest hit by pandemic

Hannah Godfrey
clock • 2 min read

Three-quarters (75%) of advisers have experienced a negative impact on gross revenues due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with a fifth forecasting a decline of at least 20%, research by the PFS and NextWealth has uncovered.

The Personal Finance Society's (PFS) and Next Wealth research found small firms with two to five employees have been hit hardest by the pandemic, with 83% of small firms reporting a decline in gross revenue. Despite the decline, financial planners reported customer numbers were up year on year, with nearly half (45%) of planners saying they were working with more clients this year than last, and 44% reporting new client enquiries are picking up. Just 5% of respondents reported a decline in client numbers year on year. The research was based on the answers of 365 PFS members surveye...

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 Your profession

Targeted support signals evolution in advice delivery

Targeted support signals evolution in advice delivery

Softer launches expected at first

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 April 2026 • 1 min read
CII: Vulnerable client management is 'an opportunity for growth'

CII: Vulnerable client management is 'an opportunity for growth'

Firms can expand potential client bases

Isabel Baxter
clock 07 April 2026 • 2 min read
Common language used by advisers triggers anxiety and distrust among retirees

Common language used by advisers triggers anxiety and distrust among retirees

Product-led communication one of the biggest drivers of mistrust

Laura Purkess
clock 01 April 2026 • 1 min read