Not such a polar shift

depolarisation

A reliance on the old structure of remuneration by commission and the failure to value advice mean market changes will not improve all-important transparency and consumer education

Although depolarisation is classic industry jargon, if it is to improve the standing of IFAs its key effect must be to make things simple so as to avoid the inertia that stops individuals being bothered because of the complicated paperwork involved. We now know that in future advisers could be independent and still advise on all products across the market or they could restrict selection to one or more providers. Fundamental to this is the idea of the 'menu' and the FSA has issued consultation paper 04/03 on the subject, Reforming polarisation: a menu for being open with consumers. Thi...