Fidelity research highlights growing adviser focus on intergenerational wealth as client demand accelerates

Advisers are increasingly focused on supporting clients with intergenerational wealth planning as client demand rises, according to the latest IFA DNA study from Fidelity Adviser Solutions. 

Client demand for wealth transfer advice accelerates

The findings show that more than half of advisers (52%) are seeing increased demand from clients for help with managing and transferring wealth across generations. Nearly one in 10 advisers (9%) say demand has increased significantly – representing a marked acceleration compared with 2023, when just 1% of advisers reported a significant rise in this type of business.

This growing momentum reflects earlier and more frequent conversations among families about wealth, legacy and long-term financial outcomes, placing intergenerational planning firmly on the advice agenda.

Advisers recognise the opportunity and continue to evolve their approach

Advisers are clear about the importance of this shift. Two thirds (66%) agree that advising on wealth transfers represents an important opportunity for their business, underlining the role intergenerational planning plays within holistic advice.

As this area continues to develop, advisers are progressing at different stages. Currently, 14% say their firm has a defined intergenerational wealth strategy in place, with a further 46% actively considering how to formalise their approach as client needs continue to evolve. 

Advice becomes more family-focused

The research also highlights a growing move towards more family-focused advice. Seven in ten (70%) advisers say they make a point of meeting with a client’s spouse, while more than half (56%) believe it is important to meet with clients’ immediate family or dependants. This reflects a shift away from purely individual advice towards supporting wider family needs and longer-term outcomes.

Paul Richards, Head of Adviser Distribution, Fidelity Adviser Solutions, said: “Our latest IFA DNA study shows just how quickly intergenerational wealth planning has moved up the agenda. Clients are starting conversations earlier and more often, and advisers are responding by taking a broader, more family-focused view of financial planning.

“Intergenerational planning is becoming a natural extension of holistic advice. By engaging spouses and wider family members, advisers can help clients put clearer plans in place, align goals across generations and build stronger, longer-lasting relationships with families.

“As the regulatory and planning landscape continues to evolve, advisers who embed intergenerational thinking into their client conversations will be well placed to support families through increasingly complex wealth decisions.”

Read the full IFA DNA research report here.