In the same week the firm announced the launch of an actively managed model portfolio service, Sky News has reported it held a beauty parade of investment bankers in recent weeks to prepare for an initial public offering.
However, it is understood the firm, which saw a 29% increase in profits before tax in 2017, is unlikely to go public until at least the fourth quarter of this year.
At present, the firm’s founder, Andy Bell, controls 28% of the company, Invesco Perpetual owns 37% and Woodford Investment Management holds 8%.
AJ Bell said it would not comment on the speculation.
