When Was the Last Time You Polished Your Digital Storefront?
In the fast-paced world of financial services, your website is often the first, and sometimes only impression a potential client receives. While many advisers focus on the initial launch, the digital landscape and regulatory requirements can shift and if you can’t remember the last time, you performed a deep-dive audit of your site, you might be carrying more risk than you realise.
A website review isn't just about fixing broken links; it’s about ensuring your digital presence is compliant, professional, and transparent.
Key Areas to Review
Here are a few critical items you should evaluate today:
Publicly Available Disclosures: Is your disclosure information prominently displayed on your Home Page .It must correctly reflect the name approved by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).
Nature and Scope of Advice: You must clearly define the types of advice you can provide and specify which product providers you are able to use. Transparency regarding any material limitations on your advice is essential.
Complaints and Disputes: Your site should set out clear information on how a client can make a complaint. Additionally, you must state that clients have access to a free, independent Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS) and provide that scheme's specific contact details.
Terminology Audit: Regulatory language evolves. Ensure you have removed outdated terminology such as "RFA or AFA.
Professionalism and Accuracy: Beyond compliance, check for typos, grammatical errors, and "jargon". All claims and representations must be accurate and not misleading.
The Bottom Line
A website is something you can't just set and forget. Regular reviews ensure that you are meeting your duties under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and maintaining the professional standards your clients expect. This extends to your social media pages.
If you would like a review of your website, let me know.