Who should conduct suitability assessments for clients?

Some advisers will work with us on the proviso that they remain responsible for the assessment of investment suitability, others that they would prefer to shift that responsibility to the Fund Manager.

Either approach is perfectly valid, if all parties can draw up clear lines of responsibility between themselves and it is communicated clearly to the client.

It’s worth noting that when an adviser chooses to use a DFM they can opt in or out of choosing responsibility for ​investment suitability. Whichever approach is taken the adviser will always be responsible for suitability of the investment proposition being recommended.