New research has uncovered resounding optimism and ambitious growth plans among IFAs, with technology and AI the area where firms most want support to get there.
The survey of ValidPath member firms found that 65% are targeting revenue growth of 20% or more over the coming year, with almost one in five (19%) aiming for growth of 50% or more. This ambition sits alongside 95% of firms describing themselves as optimistic or extremely optimistic about the year ahead, including 30% who feel extremely optimistic – and no respondents said that they were pessimistic.
Confidence was strongest among firms describing themselves as in the early stages of growth, where 39% feel extremely optimistic. These are also the firms pushing hardest to grow quickly: 85% are targeting revenue growth of 20% or more, and 36% are aiming for 50% or more.
When asked where they would most value additional support, technology and AI adoption came out on top, cited by 41% of firms – more than double the next most popular answers, growing the business and attracting new clients, and regulatory compliance (15% each). AI is also front of mind more broadly, with more than half of firms (52%) citing the future impact of AI on financial advice as one of the top factors shaping their outlook.
Simon Black, group commercial director at ValidPath, said: "These figures reflect just how confident and ambitious our member firms are for the year ahead, with the vast majority backing themselves to grow over the next 12 months.
“Technology and AI adoption is clearly where firms want the most support right now. The firms with the biggest ambitions know they can’t get there simply by doing more of the same – the right tools, and the efficiencies they bring, will be central to how they scale.
"It’s a real vote of confidence in the sector, and where networks like ValidPath can help firms build the foundations to achieve the growth they’re targeting.”
