Downing’s Mark Dunn speaks with Mark Colegate from Asset TV about investment and tax planning – both critical propositions for IFAs. Tax planning, particularly IHT planning, has become increasingly important following the changes announced in the last Budget.

Key highlights from the discussion:

Client priorities and market trends

IFAs are expected to be extremely busy in the next few years. Regulatory changes will mean they have to help clients revisit their tax strategies, particularly around pensions and IHT.

Investment outsourcing

Many IFAs are outsourcing investment management via their Centralised Investment Propositions, with many using Model Portfolio Services. Mark explains why Downing has chosen a fund-of-funds solution over MPS, aiming to offer active management with lower cost structures and better control over diversification and fund composition.

Partnership structure benefits

Downing’s partnership structure allows fund managers to share in growth and maintain independence, supported by a robust compliance and distribution infrastructure. It also allows fast decision-making and a strong internal culture, and is seen as aspirational, offering potential paths to partnership for employees.

Outlook for the business

There will be continued focus on scaling the product range and growing the sales and distribution teams to meet increased adviser demand.

Watch the discussion here:

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Important notice

Opinions expressed represent the views of the author at the time of publication, are subject to change, and should not be interpreted as investment or tax advice.

This article is for investment professionals only. This article is for information only and does not form part of a direct offer or invitation to purchase, subscribe for or dispose of securities and no reliance should be placed on it. No reliance should be made on this content to inform any investment of tax planning decision.

This content contains information that is believed to be accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. The explanation of all of the tax rules set out have been written in accordance with our understanding of the law and interpretation of it at the time of publication.

Whilst care has been taken in compiling this content, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by Downing as to its accuracy or completeness, including for external sources (which may have been used) which have not been verified.