Truth, Timing & Tariffs: A 2025 Reality Check for IFAs Considering a Sale”

Is this a good time to seriously consider selling a business? The short answer is: it could be if the time is right for you. While the market for financial advisory businesses remains relatively buoyant, there are headwinds gathering, both domestically and globally.

As I was reading in an article in FT Adviser earlier this year, advisers across the profession are already feeling increasing pressure, not just from regulatory changes, but from rising competition for clients. Giles Hutson, CEO of Insignis Cash, noted that many IFAs now feel they are “battling other parts of the industry,” such as investment providers, for client attention and loyalty. This shift adds to growing concerns about long-term sustainability, especially as valuations may start to reflect the challenge of winning new business.

It’s also worth noting that apparently 50% of advisers are now considering a sale within the next two years, if that is you, then the timing of your decision could significantly impact the outcome.

At the same time, there’s a broader context that IFAs can’t afford to ignore.  Last week, President Trump announced a new wave of tariffs targeting major trade partners, including the UK, EU and China. In fact every day yet another Executive Order comes out of the White House, which could cause more worldwide economic turmoil. The move has already unsettled global markets and introduced fresh volatility into equities. For UK investors, the ripple effects are significant: funds with international exposure are likely to experience greater fluctuations, and sector valuations may come under pressure. Financial advisers could find it harder to maintain portfolio performance or attract new business in a more risk-sensitive environment.

With this global uncertainty layered on top of increasing regulation, compliance costs, and an ageing client base in many firms, the question isn’t just “Should I sell?”, it is

“Am I prepared for the next chapter, whether I sell or not?”

How can we help?

If you want to continue and develop your business, that’s great! We can help you navigate the challenges of growth and support you with the expertise needed to make informed decisions about the future. Whether you are looking to expand, improve compliance communication or restructure, we are here to assist you in overcoming any obstacles.

We understand that selling an IFA business after a lifetime of hard work is never an easy decision. You may be ready to step away, or perhaps you want to continue running your business but need some assistance to manage the next chapter. Whatever your situation, we are here to help you explore your options.

If you are ready to sell, it’s important to act, market uncertainty may cause potential acquirers to hesitate. We work with acquirers who have funds available, (sadly, many acquirers don’t always have the necessary funds in place to purchase a business immediately) ensuring that the sale process can move forward smoothly, regardless of the size or type of your business. Finally, never forgetting there is another tax increase coming in less than 12 months on the proceeds you will receive from the sale of your business.

By consulting with us early, we can help you navigate the complexities of selling, ensuring you secure the best possible deal when you do decide to sell. Whether you decide to sell now or later, our expertise, guidance, and strategic insights will help you make an informed choice, when the time is right

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you plan for the future of your business.   As always, any first consultation, is at our expense.