How wealth management has changed

There’s something quite exciting about the idea that, today, anyone can access a level of financial planning and investment advice that — not too long ago — was only available to the very wealthy.

In the past, getting someone to look after your money, help you plan your future, and manage your investments wasn’t so straightforward. It usually involved sitting across the desk from a private banker, showing up with several hundred thousand pounds, and being prepared to pay steep fees. A 2022 report from Wealth Club noted that traditional wealth managers typically charged around 2.2% per year in total costs, with some firms requiring upfront fees of 3% just to get started.

Many providers also had strict minimum investment thresholds — often in the region of £250,000 to £500,000 just to open an account. That left a huge number of people either having to do it alone or doing nothing at all — neither of which is ideal when it comes to long-term financial wellbeing.

That picture has changed dramatically. Thanks to advances in technology, digital platforms have made investing — and proper financial planning — significantly more accessible. Many providers now let you get started with as little as £1. And fees? They’ve come down sharply too. A 2024 comparison from Boring Money shows that digital wealth managers charge between 0.25%–0.75% annually — a fraction of traditional costs. Even though digital wealth management platforms often have lower fees, they might not provide the same degree of personalized advice and in-person support that traditional wealth management firms offer.

Digital platforms are also easier to use. You can view your portfolio from your phone, check your performance at any time, set financial goals, and even speak to a consultant — all without needing to physically book appointments or visit a physical office. Financial planning is no longer about how much you have. It’s about access and flexibility.

How we help – planning, products, and personalisation

At Moneyfarm, we help bridge the gap between professional financial guidance and digital convenience. Whether you’re investing for the first time or planning for retirement, we combine tailored guidance with the tools you need to build a long-term strategy.

Managed portfolios

Your investment journey starts with a short questionnaire to understand your goals, time horizon, and attitude to risk. From there, we build and manage a globally diversified portfolio that matches your profile. These aren’t “set-and-forget” portfolios — they’re actively monitored and adjusted in line with market developments.

Our account options

We offer a range of tax-efficient investment accounts

• Stocks and Shares ISA – Invest up to £20,000 a year tax-free. No income or capital gains tax on growth or withdrawals.
• Personal Pension (SIPP) – Contribute towards retirement and receive tax relief based on your income level — up to 45% for higher earners.
• Junior ISA – Save up to £9,000 a year for your child’s future, with the same tax benefits as a standard ISA.
• General Investment Account (GIA) – For those who’ve used their ISA allowance or want fewer restrictions. Suitable for long-term investing and flexible withdrawals.

We manage the investment process for you, which includes reporting and compliance as needed. However, you remain responsible for managing your tax allowances effectively.

For DIY Investors

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, our DIY platform offers flexibility to select individual investments. You’ll still benefit from professional-level analytics and tools to guide your decision-making.

Clear and fair fees

For managed portfolios, our fees range from 0.35% to 0.75% depending on the size of your investment. A £20,000 portfolio, for example, would incur a 0.65% annual fee — simple, transparent, and with no hidden charges. Opening, withdrawing, or switching strategies? All free.

Our DIY platform charges a flat £3.95 per stock trade, and a flat custody cost of 0.35% (capped at £45/year) only if you select an ISA.

Beyond the portfolio – ongoing guidance that keeps you on track

A portfolio isn’t a plan. And that’s why we go further than just building and managing your investments.

We offer

• Ongoing reviews – Portfolios are updated as needed, in response to market conditions and your personal goals.
• Market commentary and insights – Regular updates to keep you informed on trends and context.
• Access to consultants – Whether it’s pension planning, understanding your allowances, or clarifying your strategy, we’re here to help.
• Planning tools and calculators – Helping you visualise your future goals and track progress toward them.

We don’t set up your plan and forget about you. Financial planning is a process — and we’re here to guide you through it.

In summary

Not long ago, accessing wealth management meant big money and big fees. Now, with a few clicks, you can invest in a professionally managed, globally diversified portfolio — with guidance and support that was once reserved for a few.

We use ETFs to build our portfolios for accessibility, liquidity and efficiency. ETFs are investment products that offer diversification by tracking an index. They provide investors with lower fees and easy access to global markets. 

You don’t need to try and beat the market. Historically, a balanced, long-term approach has often led to better outcomes — though this is not guaranteed. We help you do exactly that. Our services cater to UK residents with medium-to-long-term investment goals and may not be appropriate for all individuals.

We believe in ‘time in the market’ — not ‘timing the market’. And we back that belief with a service that’s not only professional and forward-looking, but also affordable. Our fees are low. There are no extra charges for financial planning or guidance. Everything you need is included — no gatekeeping, no minimum thresholds.

If this sounds like the kind of investing experience you’ve been waiting for, we’re here to help you get started.

Capital at risk. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change in future.