Why it is time to clamp down on industry jargon

Keeping it short and sweet

clock • 3 min read

Lawrence Gosling can't stand jargon (even when it comes to football). Shorthand between industry professionals is fine but do we need to subject clients to acronym overload?

Do you know what CDM or CAM stands for? They are jargon, which is a particular bug-bear of mine. I wish the FCA could do something about their use but, sadly, it cannot. Rather boringly, CDM stands for central-defensive midfielder, and CAM stands for central-attacking midfielder. They are acronyms for what old fogeys like me used to call midfielders in the days before the Premiership. My point is a simple one as far as the use of financial services jargon goes. Most industries and sectors have their own 'jargon' or acronyms - even something as widespread as football. My son talks a...

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

The Platforms Association acquires the UK Platform Awards

The Platforms Association acquires the UK Platform Awards

Clive Waller hands over the awards programme

Isabel Baxter
clock 30 July 2026 • 2 min read
FCA bereavement survey sent to just 12 firms – 'A very small dip in the ocean'

FCA bereavement survey sent to just 12 firms – 'A very small dip in the ocean'

Covers advisers, platforms and wealth managers

Sophia Panayi
clock 30 July 2026 • 3 min read
'Underperforming' sector does more damage to women over time

'Underperforming' sector does more damage to women over time

Y Tree executive director Eliana Sydes speaks to PA

Sophia Panayi
clock 29 July 2026 • 2 min read