ValidPath’s Post

Having spent the day in London recently at the Annual Valid Path Conference, I have taken some time to reflect on the previous few months since taking the step to set up my own advice business. I returned from a fabulous summer holiday with the family, straight into my new business set up at the beginning of August. In no time at all, here we are hurtling towards the end of the year. I guess it’s the same every year but feels like this year in particular, time has vanished before me. I have been asked by a few why I would make a business change like this after so many years in the profession. I am not a believer in age being any sort of barrier. If I stay in reasonable health, I currently feel like I could work forever. When I decided to set up Advice2U and was looking for a network partner, to help with compliance, technology etc, some areas were non-negotiable for me and that’s why I ultimately joined the Valid Path network. Independent status – was a must for me. Valid Path remains committed to helping IFA’s demonstrate their independent status. This has come over strongly even in the short time I have been in the door. Consistency of Proposition – Another must for me was that my long-term client relationships remained constant, with no need to move any client invested funds or change investment platforms. Some network offerings require you to move clients into their preferred investment propositions. To be able to re-assure clients of the stability of their investments at a time of change for me cannot be underestimated. Innovation & Technology – Being able to operate more efficiently and effectively with my clients using a secure portal to send and receive documents electronically. Already the time and cost efficiencies are apparent to both me and my clients. Of the new business contacts I have made so far, I wanted to give a shout out to Nitu Mehra BA(Hons) APFS - i-Paraplan Ltd, I have outsourced the vital paraplanning services to Nitu. Her assistance and expertise has been invaluable in these early days, as I get used to using new support systems and technology. As we approach the year end, I am excited for 2025 and what that will bring for Advice2U.