People with a financial adviser are more optimistic about their financial future. That’s one of the key findings of a recent Investor Confidence Barometer6. Four in five people (82%) said they get ‘value for money’ from their adviser, a 10% increase on 2023’s survey. Investors said they also feel more confident knowing their financial adviser is available in difficult times, with 96% of advised clients valuing accessibility as much as portfolio performance. This growing confidence highlights the value of financial advice for investors at every stage of life.

Advisers are more optimistic about the long-term performance of equities than investors, with this confidence rubbing off on their clients. Over five years, 89% of advisers expect markets to rise, compared to 63% of advised investors and 57% of those without advice. Over ten years, 91% of advisers are predicting market growth, versus 68% of advised and 57% of non-advised investors. Greater optimism among advised investors suggests financial advice and long-term planning builds confidence in their future wealth prospects and demonstrates the lasting value of financial advice.

Ross Easton, Head of Platform Proposition at Scottish Widows, said “This survey emphasises the difference that advisers make for their clients, especially when it comes to guiding them through times of market volatility. Our Barometer has consistently found that advised clients are more confident than non-advised investors, setting them up to benefit from market corrections and recoveries when others are more cautious.”

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6Scottish Widows, 2025

The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate will writing, tax and trust advice and certain forms of estate planning.

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this blog is based on our current understanding of taxation and can be subject to change in future.

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The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.

If you withdraw from an investment in the early years, you may not get back the full amount you invested. Changes in the rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value or price of an investment in sterling terms if it is denominated in a foreign currency. Taxation depends on individual circumstances as well as tax law and HMRC practice which can change.

The information contained within the blog is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

The purpose of the blog is to provide technical and general guidance and should not be interpreted as a personal recommendation or advice.