Can consolidators conquer Ireland?

Region is moving higher up buyers’ wishlists

clock • 3 min read

With around 40 private-equity backed consolidators all looking to snap up UK wealth managers, many are wondering: what comes next?

As tens of buyers all circle a dwindling number of advice firms, competition is fierce. Prices are skyrocketing as consolidators run into dozens of competitors all eyeing the same prize. "Everyone is really struggling with organic growth due to flat markets," said the former head of M&A at a major consolidator. "How many more ‘decent' firms are there left to buy, at prices both buyer and seller will consider commercially fair?" While some are predicting that the consolidators will eventually merge with each other, others are spotting a new trend, as firms build up geographical niches ...

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 Business

Seven overlooked money-saving tips to share with small business owner clients

Seven overlooked money-saving tips to share with small business owner clients

SME owners felt the squeeze during 2025

Carl Johnson
clock 21 January 2026 • 5 min read
Three communications surveillance gaps that cost mid-sized financial firms

Three communications surveillance gaps that cost mid-sized financial firms

What mid-sized firms should demand from surveillance technology

Jamie Hoyle
clock 20 January 2026 • 3 min read
Corbel Partners secures £10m to fund major five-year acquisition programme

Corbel Partners secures £10m to fund major five-year acquisition programme

Backing from Beechbrook Capital

Jenna Brown
clock 14 January 2026 • 2 min read