These are held under the capable guidance of branch chairman Craig Palfrey CFPCM, writes Richard Watkins CFPCM of Close Brothers.
Each gathering is 3-4 hours long and offers the opportunity to cover a number of topics in some depth and provide a lively forum for debate of current issues, of which there are several. As usual, the meeting was very well attended by around 45 people.
Dan Attwood of Legal and General Investments opened proceedings with a useful review of how passive funds can enhance returns, aid diversification and reduce costs when forming part of an asset allocated portfolio.
He was followed by Lisa Webster from Hornbuckle Mitchell who provided a detailed overview and analysis of the retirement market with a summary of the pension benefit options available to clients.
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The impressive and engaging Phil Billingham CFPCM ,who was formerly an IFP board director, then asked us to consider how the RDR has helped planners. He asked us to consider what are our current challenges as well as the challenges yet to be faced.
Limited space prevents me from providing a more detailed review of this excellent presentation. As many IFP members will know, Phil does not shirk from asking the difficult questions.
It was interesting to see the lively debate which was generated around questions such as, do we do what we say we do? Do all our clients provide a profitable level of income? Do we understand our client proposition? Do our clients understand it and value it and how is it measured? It's discussion and debate like this which provides such a valuable part of attending branch meetings and networking with like minded people. As ever, it was enjoyable, provocative and lively.
Our next meeting is on 12 November when we'll be talking about Financial Planning Week as well as welcoming more excellent speakers including Matt Anderson of The Referral Authority, and Richard Allum CFPCM of The Paraplanners and Moneyscope. If you're in the area, please come and join us. You'll get a great welcome!