Call for platforms to help remove barriers to entry for innovative new funds

Under review by the regulator

As the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) review of the asset management industry has shown, there is a need for fresh thinking on fees and greater alignment of interests with the investing public, writes Dan Brocklebank, head of UK at Orbis Investments.

As the regulator now embarks on a new study into investment platforms, there is an excellent opportunity to encourage innovation and remove barriers to entry for those who are trying to change the status quo for the better. Platforms occupy a dominant position in the UK retail marketplace, and should in theory be well-placed to help their customers discover innovative new funds. But in practice, platforms are understandably reluctant to make new products available unless there is sufficient demand to cover the initial set-up costs and ongoing administrative requirements.  FCA platf...