News
South Africa to bring in 50% cap on upfront commission
South Africa’s Financial Services Board (FSB) will limit upfront commission to 50%, with the remainder set to be paid on an “as and when” basis as further details emerge on how the regulator will introduce the first set of Retail Distribution Review (RDR) measures.
Best Practice | news 5 Jan 17
Zurich launches UK adviser platform with multi-application tool
Insurance giant Zurich has launched a protection platform where UK advisers can apply for multiple policies in one application.
European robo-adviser plans UK launch promising 20% returns
European wealth management firm Novofina will launch in the UK this year bringing “state-of-the-art” algorithms which it claims can deliver 20% returns for investors.
Tax & Regulation | news 5 Jan 17
UK upholds use of controversial APNs to tackle tax avoidance
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has said it will continue to use accelerated payment notices (APNs) to combat tax avoidance schemes, despite concerns that the penalties are “morally questionable”.
People Moves | news 5 Jan 17
PEOPLE MOVES: Aegon, ATS, CII, Zedra, Lombard Odier
Aegon announces the departure of its UK platform czar following its buyout of Cofunds as Alliance Trust Savings hires an ex-Prudential consultant to the newly-created role of chief operating officer. Zedra appoints a new head of its London office, while on a more tragic note Columbia Threadneedle confirms the death of global equities manager Stephen Thornber.