Focus has been divided between the FCA’s announcement of its rules for the Mortgage Credit Directive implementation, as well as the pension reforms taking hold – and a tangible pause was felt as the build-up to the General Election cast uncertainty over the housing market.
Financial Services Expo has aimed, since its launch, to be a constantly adapting resource for intermediaries – to respond, as advisers must, to these changes in the industry and the economy.
With a housing market that continues to show disparity across the UK, we launched FSE Glasgow in March to a hugely positive reception from the industry. With our typically high standard of exhibitors and a seminar programme that explored the difference in housing markets – and how this affected intermediaries – we continued to support the mortgage industry across the UK.
When the new FCA guidance on the MCD was revealed, we ensured the regulator’s technical mortgage specialist Keith Hale gave a keynote address at FSE Manchester one month later; and it was clear that intermediaries were glad of the chance to hear directly from the FCA, with our highest ever seminar attendance leaving standing room only in the hall.
FSE London has also been designed to help advisers make sense of, and make the most of, industry changes. The Financial Reporter Seminar Theatre saw pensions expert Michelle Cracknell discussing the pension reforms revealed earlier this year, and the AMI Seminar Theatre gives attendees the chance to hear from the Financial Conduct Authority.
We hope it’s clear that we are continually evaluating and updating what we bring to the industry, to ensure we are not only an event where you can do business, but one that is an essential tool for making the most of your client offering. And, with huge growth in our two years since launch, it seems to be working.
In between planning three successful shows, the Front Events team were still busy with our other industry events. The Financial Services Expo Race Day is our chance to give something back, raising money for UK children’s charity WellChild at our annual event, held at the prestigious Goodwood Race Course. Last year it raised thousands for the charity and did the same again this year – attendees enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal, a flutter on the horses, and a chance to network with their industry peers.
We also were busy this year organising the Sesame National Mortgage conference which took place at St George’s Park, the Football Association’s headquarters, in July. This was our first large corporate event for Front and one that was delivered to an exceptionally high standard which was proven by the glowing feedback received from all.
As you can see, we’ve been busy. However, we don’t like to rest on our laurels. As we go into a new year, we will continue to look forward and ensure what we offer at FSE helps you stay a cut above.
We will bring FSE Glasgow back to Scotland early next year, followed by FSE Manchester in Spring before coming back to London in the Autumn. Our most exciting news of the year, however, is that a fourth Financial Services Expo will soon be joining the ranks as part of our mission to ensure every adviser in the country has access to our unique approach to the industry trade show. In June 2016, FSE Cardiff will make its debut, serving intermediaries across Wales and the South West, at the Swalec Stadium in the Welsh capital. We look forward to seeing you there!
Finally, thank you again – every exhibitor, delegate, sponsor, and partner of the show is part of something truly extraordinary, and we are confident that next year we can continue to make shaping the future of financial services a collaborative effort.
