ValidpathFeb 20 2024

ValidPath offers £100k 'safety blanket' for advisers switching to network

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ValidPath offers £100k 'safety blanket' for advisers switching to network
ValidPath CEO Angus MacNee said a new funding solution makes it easier for IFAs to switch network. (Pixabay)

A loan of up to £100,000 is being offered as a "safety blanket" for financial advisers wanting to switch to ValidPath. 

ValidPath said the funding solution would be available to firms wanting to leave their current network but unable to do so because of exit terms, including financial penalties. 

It gives firms access to up to £100,000 to help with any de-authorisation notice period and the FCA authorisation process with ValidPath.

Repayments can be made over 24 months from future revenues.

Angus MacNee, ValidPath CEO, said: “An IFA proposition should compete on its merits and not via a punitive lock-in that prevents you leaving to protect an outdated business model and self interest. 

"In the consumer space generally, this is understood and the marketplace has adapted accordingly, yet in the retail wealth space, preserving the status quo via financial penalties and barriers remains prevalent.

“While I appreciate that some exit fees are necessary, for example to cover potential liabilities via PII, for which withholding commission can sometimes be the mechanism to achieve this, often such fees can adversely impact the firm and its ability to plan accordingly."

He added: “At its core, this new funding solution has been developed to provide a safety blanket for ARs and enable them to choose a network based on what suits their business requirements and future needs, not their financial situation or current circumstances."

ValidPath said exit penalties are used to "maintain the status quo" and forces firms to stay in a network which they are not best suited to. 

Richard Phillips, network development director at ValidPath, said: “Firms have called our financial facility a game changer. Some don’t intend to draw funds, however, they view it as a safety net and it gives them confidence that it is in place.

"For others, it can be the catalyst that will enable them to accelerate their business planning and move their firm to ValidPath and our independent proposition."

tara.o'connor@ft.com

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