Nearly half of independent financial advisers believe the Financial Conduct Authority’s new Targeted Support framework could make consumers more likely to seek full financial advice.

Ahead of the framework’s introduction in April, 46% of IFAs said access to targeted pension and investment support would increase the likelihood of people turning to independent financial advice, according to polling by Opinium.

The new regime is intended to allow financial firms to provide tailored, lower-cost product recommendations to groups of consumers with similar characteristics, helping to bridge the gap between generic guidance and fully personalised advice.

Only 19% of IFAs said Targeted Support would make people less likely to seek independent advice, indicating that most do not view the framework as a substitute for regulated, paid-for advice.

Some 57% said Targeted Support would help clients plan their financial future more effectively, suggesting advisers see it as a useful additional route to support rather than a threat to their role.

WHY CLIENTS ARE SEEKING ADVICE

Opinium’s polling also found that 52% of IFAs said new clients in 2026 had sought advice in order to plan for new financial goals, including retirement, paying off a mortgage or buying a home.

Meanwhile, 38% said clients were coming forward because of major life events such as marriage, having children or moving house.

Nearly three in 10 advisers, 29%, said changes in income or employment were prompting new enquiries, while 12% said clients were seeking help to prepare for major upcoming expenses.

Matthew Howlett, research manager at Opinium, said: “Ahead of Targeted Support being introduced next month, IFAs believe the new framework could play an important role, not only giving people more support to plan their financial futures but also helping them to understand when they need to seek independent advice.

“Our research shows that IFAs are seeing an influx of new clients this year reaching out to plan for new goals and life’s big moments, whether that’s planning for retirement, buying a home or having kids, showing that consumers realise the value of professional advice at major decision points.”