New research by Rimbal shows that the majority of independent financial advice firms on platform are seeking to grow, and that technology and AI is an enabler to support their growth. This follows a survey of 79 independent firms in our ValidPath proposition conducted in August 2026. Below are findings, and our view on what it means, and how Rimbal provides the platform for growth.
Independent financial advice firms are entering the year ahead with real confidence. The results point to a community (and sector at large) that is optimistic and looking to grow.
| Survey Question | Percentage of Firms |
|---|---|
| Optimistic or extremely optimistic about the year ahead | 95% |
| Targeting revenue growth of 20% or more over the next 12 months | 65% |
| Aiming for revenue growth of 50% or more | 19% |
| Early growth firms targeting 20% or more | 85% |
| See the future impact of AI as a top factor shaping their outlook | 52% |
* Percentages rounded to the nearest whole number. Figures reflect firms’ own targets and views, not forecasts.
Commenting on the survey results, Simon Black, COO of Rimbal said: “These figures reflect just how confident and ambitious firms are for the year ahead, with the vast majority backing themselves to grow over the next 12 months. It’s a real vote of confidence in our proposition and the sector.”
The research shows an adviser community with ambition and a clear view of what will help it succeed. 52% of firms see the future impact of AI on financial advice as a top factor shaping their outlook, and 41% name technology and AI adoption as a key priority for supporting their business.
With the rapidly changing consumer, business, regulatory and technology landscape being influenced by AI, integrating the odd meeting transcription tool into today’s workflow is not enough. You must architect your entire business for AI and an agentic future.
“Technology and AI are increasingly becoming the backbone of how firms support their growth and prepare for the future. At Rimbal, we are building the intelligent infrastructure that enables independent firms to be able to focus on growing their businesses and delivering the best outcome for their clients,” said Simon Black. “I share the optimism of our IFA community and am excited about the benefits technology and AI can deliver today, as well as the opportunities they will create for advisers and clients in the future.”
Resources
