Client acquisition was the top priority for financial advisers this year, according to research by Unbiased Pro.
34% of firms put finding new clients top of their list, and client retention followed at 23%.
Technology adoption was only a top priority for 14%, despite calls from advisers for less paperwork, more automation, and flexible fees.
The research found that advisers were also thinking about expanding services (9%), regulatory compliance (8%), succession planning (3%), staff recruitment and training (3%), and mergers or business consolidation (2%).
Matt Cockayne, chief revenue officer at Unbiased Pro, said: “Client acquisition is about more than growth; it’s about future-proofing their businesses.
“With demographic shifts and regulatory changes accelerating, advisers who can attract and retain the right clients will be best positioned to thrive.
“There’s a real opportunity to unlock efficiency through smarter technology and strategies that can help advisers grow sustainably and connect with the right clients faster.”
Cockayne added: “As the scalable and repeatable top of funnel growth solution for advice firms, Unbiased is committed to helping advisers thrive through predictable and sustainable growth.”
