For the past few years, we’ve been saying that traditional strategic asset allocation (SAA) is going to stuggle going forward, and therefore no longer fit for purpose in a world defined by geopolitics, deglobalisation, sticky inflation, and unsustainable debt levels.
In today’s complex market environment, the choice of investment approach is more than just a portfolio decision - it’s a business-defining one. For financial planning firms and dealer groups, the investment philosophy they choose to work with can either strengthen their client relationships or quietly undermine them.
Advisers know that the risks of following an outdated investment approach, or one that may not work well in these times, extends well beyond poor portfolio performance. They can ripple into client trust, business reputation, compliance risk, and long-term commercial sustainability.
In the realm of financial planning, the choice of investment approach is a critical factor that can determine the success or failure of a business and the financial well-being of its clients. The risks associated with an erroneous investment strategy extend beyond mere financial losses and can have profound implications for the reputation, legal standing, and client relationships of financial planning firms.
A market correction can spell disaster for a financial planning business. Time is lost calming clients’ nerves rather than building your business. Some clients may even leave after seeing their capital shrink, and your income may plunge along with the market.
When prospective clients ask why they should choose your advice firm over another, are you able to provide them with a compelling reason that clearly makes you stand out from the competition?
In 2022, the most successful financial planning businesses operate a model focused on client-centric holistic strategic advice, rather than investment management, as their key service offering.
