
Navigating the unpredictable waters of the financial services industry can be a constant challenge. With market fluctuations, interest rate changes, and inflation pressures there’s never been a greater need for financial advisers. This career path offers long-term stability and the opportunity to take control of your professional and financial future, while making a meaningful impact on others’ lives.
In this article, BTS featured company SJP examines some of these current issues and explores why now could be an idea time for you to take the next step and become a financial adviser.
For professionals within financial services, the industry’s unpredictability can be a constant frustration. With market fluctuations, interest rate changes, and pressures surrounding inflation dictate workloads and, in some cases, income stability.
The recent decision by the Bank of England (BoE) to cut its base interest rate to 4.5% – the third reduction in six months – highlights the challenges facing the UK economy. With growth forecasts downgraded and inflation expected to rise again before falling to target levels, financial professionals are navigating an uncertain terrain (The Times).
But while many roles in the industry are at the mercy of these external factors, there is an alternative: becoming a financial adviser. This career offers long-term stability and the chance to take control of your professional and financial future – while helping others do the same.
The UK economy is grappling with stagnation, and while the BoE’s rate cuts aim to stimulate growth, inflation remains a pressing concern. Forecasts suggest inflation could rise to 3.7% before gradually falling to the 2% target (although this is unlikely to drop until 2027) (The Times).
These conditions create ripple effects across financial services, with market volatility making investments and lending unpredictable, inflation outpacing wage growth, and economic shifts creating career uncertainty. As professionals face these challenges, many are seeking more stability – making financial advice an increasingly attractive option.
Unlike many roles in finance, financial advisers are not solely at the mercy of market movements. Instead, they focus on long-term client relationships, financial planning, and wealth management that are resilient to short-term economic changes.
Key benefits of the role include autonomy (since advisers can build their own client base and dictate their own workload), income stability, and purpose and impact. The ability to help individuals and businesses navigate financial uncertainty makes the role both fulfilling and future-proof.
Vishal, former mortgage adviser who now runs a financial advice practice at St. James’s Place, highlights the advantage of this career: “Wealth advice gives you the opportunity to build a long-term business that isn’t dictated by market volatility. My business partner and I wanted to recession-proof our firm, and financial advice allows us to do that. Whether in a booming economy or a cost-of-living crisis, people need guidance to create more stable financial futures.”
The economic turbulence of recent years has led to a greater need for financial expertise. With interest rates fluctuating and inflation affecting household budgets, individuals are seeking more advice on mortgages, investments, pensions, and long-term financial security.
The UK’s ‘mass affluent’ demographic – those with investable assets between £50,000 and £5 million is projected to rise from 11 million to over 14 million by 2030, leading to an increased demand for financial advice (Academy).
Additionally, the financial advice profession is facing a significant challenge: the demand for trusted financial advice is increasing, yet the number of qualified advisers is not keeping pace. Currently, there are over 28,000 financial advisers in the UK, many of whom are approaching retirement, with the average age of 57. This demographic shift presents a substantial opportunity for new professionals to enter the field (Academy).
The path to becoming a financial adviser is structured but accessible. The key steps include:
Structure programmes like the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy also provide training for those looking to join the profession, making the most of digital and face-to-face learning techniques designed to help people launch a successful career in financial advice.
If you’re feeling frustrated by the unpredictability of financial markets, now is the time to explore a career in financial advice. With strong demand, a clear career path, and the opportunity for autonomy, this profession offers a way to build a stable future – on your terms.
If the unpredictability of financial markets has you seeking a more stable and fulfilling career, consider becoming a financial adviser. Bespoke Training Solutions is here to guide you through this transition. Get in touch with BTS today to learn more about how you can build a stable future in the dynamic world of financial advice.
Find out more about the opportunities with St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy, check out their Featured Company Profile page.
You can also connect with SJP by editing your profile and updating your connect with featured companies preferences to start a conversation.
Read the article “7 reasons why you should become a Financial Adviser” to find out more about the Financial Adviser role.
You can also read a real-life career change adviser story in the article “From Banking to Financial Advice” below.