Political fragmentation and what it means for financial planning

Reform's tally of 677 council seats represented 41% of all those being contested

clock • 5 min read

Phillip Wickenden assesses last week's local election results and spells out what it could mean for financial advisers, with a bit of input from his dear dad...

At the 2024 general election Reform secured 14% of the vote but just 5 out of 650 seats at Westminster. The First Past the Post (FPTP) system is designed to work for a two-horse race, but the UK is now a country with more runners and riders. The fragmentation caused by populism, political polarisation and a (not so healthy) dose of disappointment, blows the race wide open. And crucially, as last week's local elections made abundantly clear, Nige is no nag. In fact, the going is good for a Reform UK that, having undergone significant professionalisation, has the measure of the racecourse ...

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 paradox of invisible value: How to ensure clients recognise the power of advice in volatile times

The paradox of invisible value: How to ensure clients recognise the power of advice in volatile times

'Investing is not just a technical exercise; it’s an emotional one'

Kate Rainbow
clock 03 August 2026 • 4 min read
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