The French Financial Advice Market 2007

The French Financial Advice Market 2007

Introduction

French banks dominate the financial services distribution market and French customers traditionally have a good relationship with their banks. This report looks at the extent to which financial advisers may be able to change this dynamic and gain share in this market, and whether this will create new distribution opportunities for product providers.

Scope

Encompasses both the French financial advice market and the wider issues affecting Europe as a whole Analyzes the market for financial advice in France, including types of advisers, key products and leading associations Contains detailed competitor information and analysis of current issues and opportunities Offers a comprehensive evaluation of the key players in the market and the potential for growth

Highlights

The financial advice channel in France is one of the smallest in Europe, and lacks both the regulation and the structure of other more developed markets. Around 80% of financial services are provided by banks; making the 'independent' or non-bank sector necessarily marginal. The concept of a 'financial advisor' in France is more loosely defined than in many European countries, and this ambiguity has made it difficult for financial advisors to establish themselves in the French market. The historically generous state pension scheme in France combined with a relatively underdeveloped private pension market contributes to a lower demand for financial advice than in countries where the state is less reliable. However, there are growth opportunities within the independent sector, particularly in terms of the smaller competitors.

Reasons to Purchase

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the size and scope of the French financial advice market Obtain detailed and invaluable analysis of the competitive landscape and potential for market entry Assess the importance of this channel for distribution strategies going forward

Introduction

French banks dominate the financial services distribution market and French customers traditionally have a good relationship with their banks. This report looks at the extent to which financial advisers may be able to change this dynamic and gain share in this market, and whether this will create new distribution opportunities for product providers.

Scope

Encompasses both the French financial advice market and the wider issues affecting Europe as a whole Analyzes the market for financial advice in France, including types of advisers, key products and leading associations Contains detailed competitor information and analysis of current issues and opportunities Offers a comprehensive evaluation of the key players in the market and the potential for growth

Highlights

The financial advice channel in France is one of the smallest in Europe, and lacks both the regulation and the structure of other more developed markets. Around 80% of financial services are provided by banks; making the 'independent' or non-bank sector necessarily marginal. The concept of a 'financial advisor' in France is more loosely defined than in many European countries, and this ambiguity has made it difficult for financial advisors to establish themselves in the French market. The historically generous state pension scheme in France combined with a relatively underdeveloped private pension market contributes to a lower demand for financial advice than in countries where the state is less reliable. However, there are growth opportunities within the independent sector, particularly in terms of the smaller competitors.

Reasons to Purchase

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the size and scope of the French financial advice market Obtain detailed and invaluable analysis of the competitive landscape and potential for market entry Assess the importance of this channel for distribution strategies going forward