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

Feel Good Friday: Personal Finance Awards winners named

Feel Good Friday: Personal Finance Awards winners named

Awards ceremony took place yesterday

Professional Adviser
clock 23 October 2026 • 1 min read
What do younger clients really want from their adviser?

What do younger clients really want from their adviser?

'They're going to need all the help they can get'

Justin Cash
clock 21 October 2026 • 5 min read
CII and PFS celebrate more than 300 chartered graduates

CII and PFS celebrate more than 300 chartered graduates

347 graduate from CII and PFS

Sophia Panayi
clock 21 October 2026 • 2 min read