Raconteur.net has published a report on the impact of M&A activity on asset management and customer service. The report highlights that while consolidation in wealth management has been ongoing for a long time, there is no guarantee that advisory relationships can be maintained or replicated following an acquisition. This could lead to clients and assets under management following their old adviser out of the door if they decide to retire or don't like the new regime. The report also mentions the Consumer Duty regulation, which will come into force in July and requires firms to act to deliver good outcomes for retail customers. The main drivers of M&A activity include economies of scale, the need to invest in new technology, and the appeal of businesses with high margins to private equity firms.
