Buyers should stay cautious and ensure they know who they’re dealing with

If commission payments go, then it is incumbent on the regulator and the industry to ensure that financial advice is accessible to all investors and buyers of personal financial products

Finding a qualified financial adviser with broad expertise isn’t easy Pic: Getty

“How can I find independent, impartial financial advice? I have some money I’d like to get a better return on or invest” is the most common question I receive.

Plenty of the inquiries come from people who have been ripped off at some point, were mis-sold an unsuitable product or who have met someone who has. Mostly, they are from people who have the good sense to recognise that they need professional help.