As Active Chartered Financial Planners marks 25 years in business, we have been reflecting on how financial priorities evolve over time. Throughout this journey, we have helped clients at every stage, from building financial security to retirement planning and wealth preservation.
To gain deeper insights, we recently conducted our first client survey of the year, asking about the biggest financial challenges of the past 25 years, where clients feel most secure today, and what concerns them for the future.
Confidence has remained steady, with 61% of clients saying their financial outlook has not changed since last quarter. While 24% feel less confident, 15% feel more positive about their financial future. Many of those who reported lower confidence attributed this to wider economic concerns rather than their personal financial plans.
One respondent commented: “Despite all costs rising exponentially since the Truss budget my SIPP has performed exceptionally well, and I’m delighted with my financial position.”
Another said: “My ‘less confident’ comment relates to the world financial situation, not to any doubt about Active’s future input!”
When asked about the biggest financial challenges faced over the last 25 years, the most common responses were achieving financial security (42%), saving for retirement (28%), keeping up with inflation (15%), rising living costs (7%), and buying property or raising finance (5%). Many clients reflected that financial stability is not just about accumulating wealth but about ensuring their money continues to work for them over time. Some spoke about the importance of tax efficiency and planning ahead to avoid unexpected financial burdens later in life.
Nearly half of respondents (46%) said that help with retirement planning has been the most valuable support they have received from Active. Many also spoke about the reassurance that comes from knowing their retirement plans are structured in a way that allows them to maintain their lifestyle, whatever happens in the wider economy.
One client stated: “I hadn’t intended to retire until well into my sixties, but when my circumstances changed, I was able to leave at 55. The fund I’m invested in is paying my salary every year (plus some extras!) and is now worth 12% more than when I transferred in. I couldn’t be happier with the service and advice I receive.”
Another commented on the value of working with the team at Active Chartered Financial Planners: “It is reassuring to work with knowledgeable and personable professionals who genuinely have their clients’ best interests at heart. The team explains everything clearly, offers honest guidance, and supports us in making the right decisions.”
Looking to the future, 60% of respondents said maintaining their quality of life is their biggest financial concern. Other key concerns include medical and care costs (16%), future tax increases (9%), and supporting family members financially (8%). Clients expressed the importance of ongoing financial reviews and structured advice to ensure their wealth continues to support them through retirement and beyond.
One client said: “The advice I have received has allowed me to retire earlier than I expected and still maintain my lifestyle. I feel completely confident about my financial future.”
Karl Pemberton, managing director, said: “As we celebrate 25 years, it is clear that financial security remains just as important today as it was when we started. What has changed is how people think about it over time. In the early stages, it is often about making sure you are on the right track, while later on, the focus shifts to maintaining stability and making the most of what you have built.
“The results of this survey reinforce why long term planning is so important. While economic conditions and government policy will always change, having a clear financial strategy provides confidence, whatever happens in the wider world.”
This was our first survey of the year, and we will continue to check in with clients throughout 2025. Understanding what matters most to them helps us make sure we are offering the right support and advice at every stage of their financial journey.
If you would like to discuss your financial planning or find out how we can help, contact us today by phone at 01642 765957 or email info@activefp.co.uk.
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