Public confusion over titles that financial advisers call themselves and what the names mean is to be dealt with by the Financial Services Authority. Although the term 'independent' has been reserved for those advisers who are given access to the whole market of products, and offer the option of fee-based advice, some tied advisers are misleading consumers, through the use of terms such as 'impartial,' 'unbiased' and 'offering choice'.
Our view
has always offered fee based advice, even when it was not compulsory for independent financial advisers.
Be aware, you must be offered the option of a fee. Always ask if your adviser is independent.