A clear majority of financial advisers (91%) say they value a strategic partner that can support the co-manufacturing of managed portfolio services (MPS) aligned with their clients’ individual goals, new research from Charles Stanley, part of Raymond James Wealth Management, has found.
The findings underline how central MPS has become to advisers’ investment propositions, as client needs grow more diverse and outcomes more specific.
Rather than relying solely on off-the-shelf solutions, advisers are increasingly looking for collaborative approaches that allow greater alignment with target markets and client objectives.
When reviewing MPS providers, alignment with target market suitability remains advisers’ top consideration, cited by 34% of respondents. This is closely followed by the ability to tailor investment portfolios to income or growth strategies (33%), diversification across asset classes (32%), and access to active solutions (also 32%).
With demand for MPS showing no signs of slowing, advisers are looking to providers to help them deliver robust, fit-for-purpose investment solutions that reflect the full range of client circumstances. The research highlights the growing importance of flexibility within structured frameworks.
With demand for MPS showing no signs of slowing, advisers are looking to providers to help them deliver robust, fit-for-purpose investment solutions that reflect the full range of client circumstances. The research highlights the growing importance of flexibility within structured frameworks.
Diversification of investment vehicles, including bonds, equities and funds, was cited by 30% of advisers as a key feature. Other important considerations include rebalancing frequency (26%), the use of passive solutions (26%), and geographic diversification (24%).
The emphasis on these features reinforces advisers’ desire for closer collaboration on MPS design and delivery. The strong preference for co-manufacturing reflects a shift towards partnerships that combine investment expertise with a deep understanding of client outcomes.
Rebecca Stein, Head of Product at Charles Stanley, part of Raymond James Wealth Management, comments:
“As client needs continue to become more nuanced, advisers are increasingly focused on how investment solutions are constructed and governed. The high level of interest in co-manufacturing reflects a desire for flexibility within a disciplined framework, bringing together risk management, diversification and the ability to adapt portfolios to income, growth or sustainability objectives. It points to a more collaborative model of MPS delivery, built around long-term partnerships rather than products alone.”
