wrap platforms

Software provider FNZ is building a multi-channel platform offering for Close Asset Management, including direct to consumer and retail-advised arms.

Platform assets under administration (AUA) only rose by 3.62% in Q1 as advisers' fears grew about the regulatory impact of using the technology, according to research by The Platforum.

Firms offering unqualified IFAs 'lay advocate' roles post-RDR face a serious compliance headache, an investment consultant has warned.

Standard Life Wealth has launched a set of five risk-rated investment strategies on its wrap platform which will form the backbone of its new Managed Portfolio Service (MPS).

Pensions provider AJ Bell has added an ISA and a dealing account to its Sippdeal platform, and will now offer an annual fund rebate of up to 0.5% across all three accounts.

Capita Financial Software is hosting a platform comparison and due diligence day for advisers in June.

The FSA gave platforms just one week to respond to another follow-up questionnaire as it explores "other scenarios" alongside the ongoing cash rebate controversy, it has emerged.

SIPP and wrap providers who do not currently pay VAT on fees for their services could find they are actually liable, warns Malcolm Small, policy director at the Tax Incentivised Savings Association (TISA).

Aegon's new Novia-built platform, set for a phased roll-out later this year, will likely offer wrappers including SIPPs, ISAs and an offshore bond.

Zurich UK Life's Matt Connell and Richard Howells discuss how platforms will help advisers in their quest to be RDR ready.