Money Marketing’s Weekly Must-Reads: Top 10 Stories
This week, the financial news was defined by two major developments: the rebrand of Nutmeg and a major UK retail investment push from JPMorgan. These headlines, which point to a changing landscape for digital investment, were among the most-viewed stories on Money Marketing.
Here are the ten most-read stories from the past week:
Nutmeg rebrand signals ‘end of robo-advice era’
JP Morgan’s rebrand of Nutmeg has led some to believe the UK’s ‘robo-advice’ era is over. After being acquired by the banking giant, Nutmeg will soon become J.P. Morgan Personal Investing, with a new DIY platform set to launch. Holly Mackay of Boring Money believes the shift indicates that the future of digital wealth lies with established brands, not start-ups, and highlights the absorption of smaller fintechs by bigger financial players.
JPMorgan to launch DIY platform in UK retail investment push
JPMorgan is making a big splash in the UK’s retail investment sector with the launch of J.P. Morgan Personal Investing. Set to replace Nutmeg in November, the new platform will be available via the Chase UK app, offering managed investments, pensions, and ISAs. A DIY platform is also planned for 2026, aiming to challenge current market leaders and provide customers with a one-stop shop for their banking and investment needs.
Rathbones warns pension tax fears driving premature withdrawals
Following speculation over pension tax changes, Rathbones has warned that some savers are making premature withdrawals from their tax-free lump sums. A recent survey revealed that many people now regret this decision, which can have long-term consequences, including missed investment growth and increased tax exposure. Rathbones urges savers to seek professional advice and consider the risks before acting on unconfirmed rumours ahead of the November Budget.
Shelley McCarthy: Why tax-free cash is the last line of defence for pensions
The cherished pension regime is under threat as persistent rumours circulate about removing the 25% tax-free lump sum. Shelley McCarthy, managing director of Informed Choice, believes this vital perk is the “final anchor” for retirement saving. Following IHT changes, experts warn that losing the cash would render pensions a hard sell, potentially making ISAs more appealing for many UK clients. Advisers must prepare to pivot their planning strategy.
Fintel launches standalone distribution platform
Fintel has launched Omnicore, an intelligent distribution platform acting as a strategic conduit between product providers and financial advisers. The platform’s debut offering is Omni Protect, a premium protection club designed to reward firms that maintain exemplary sales quality. According to Omnicore’s CEO, the new service combines deep regulatory expertise and market insight to drive better financial outcomes, raising the standard for how products are designed and distributed across the UK retail investment market.
Aviva announces ‘new chapter’ in private markets investing
Aviva is launching its new default pension investment strategy, My Future Vision, which marks a new chapter in private markets investing. The strategy allocates a significant portion of assets to private equity, infrastructure, and real estate. Partnering with five global asset managers, Aviva’s goal is to offer enhanced diversification and better long-term returns for savers, while also supporting the Mansion House Compact.
Just Group announces the launch of new Fixed Term Investment on Fundment platform
Just Group has partnered with the Fundment platform to launch its new Fixed Term Investment (FTI), offering guaranteed income or growth within a pension. This innovative, FSCS-protected solution is designed to help advisers create diversified, hybrid retirement portfolios by shielding clients from market volatility. The FTI provides a much-needed layer of certainty and simplifies tax-efficient administration, reflecting the market’s shift away from single-strategy retirement planning.
Ex-FCA staffer vows to keep fighting after tribunal defeat
A former FCA employee, Jasthi Alom, has lost his fair trial appeal at an employment tribunal but is vowing to keep fighting. The tribunal judge ruled that a nine-month delay in the verdict was “unacceptably long” but did not constitute an unfair process. Alom, who was dismissed for gross misconduct, maintains that the case raises concerns over the FCA’s use of surveillance and its treatment of staff.
Life insurance sales soar as families scramble to protect estates from IHT
Families are currently scrambling to protect their estates from escalating Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability, resulting in an 18% surge in life insurance sales. This rush follows government announcements that more assets, including pensions, are becoming subject to IHT rules. TWM Solicitors notes that life insurance remains a powerful planning tool, but only if policies are correctly held in a trust to exempt payouts from IHT.
Hoxton Wealth announces two senior hires from Titan and SJP
Hoxton Wealth has welcomed two senior hires: Katherine Rabaiotti as director of compliance and Jamie McNish as regional director for London. Rabaiotti, formerly of Titan Wealth, was attracted by Hoxton’s balance of growth and integrity. McNish, who joins from St. James’s Place, was impressed by the firm’s ambition and unique proposition. Both are keen to grow the business while maintaining a strong focus on client outcomes.
