James Goward: The ugly side of the DFM beauty parade

Due-diligence must be driving force

clock • 3 min read

Is the trend towards advisers holding 'beauty parades' to help clients choose a discretionary fund manager the best approach? James Goward argues advisers are far better placed to make this decision than their clients

We live in an age where consumers, more than ever before, are able to make informed purchasing decisions. The algorithms that sit behind shopping websites enable us to filter our potential choices down from everything to those items best suited to our objectives. But hiring a discretionary fund manager (DFM) is clearly not the same as buying a toaster - or any other item for that matter. There are many complex aspects to consider and - as advisers well know - it takes more than a few reviews to pick the right service. Surely an adviser is best-placed to narrow a crowded field to the most...

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: Nine Edge Wealth sponsors young Scottish boxer

Feel Good Friday: Nine Edge Wealth sponsors young Scottish boxer

Sponsors Lara Brown

Professional Adviser
clock 17 July 2026 • 1 min read
Women's Wealth Alliance launches careers guide to attract more women to personal finance profession

Women's Wealth Alliance launches careers guide to attract more women to personal finance profession

Aimed at women at different stages of life and careers

Professional Adviser
clock 16 July 2026 • 3 min read
Women in Financial Advice Awards 2026: Shortlists revealed!

Women in Financial Advice Awards 2026: Shortlists revealed!

All the winners will be announced at a celebratory gala dinner on 4 November

Professional Adviser
clock 15 July 2026 • 10 min read