The core factors that financial advisers prioritise when choosing platforms have remained broadly unchanged since 2022, despite the introduction of the Consumer Duty in 2023, analysis from Defaqto has revealed.

Data from its Engage financial planning tool showed that the top 20 research filters used by advisers in 2025 were “almost identical” to previous years.

Only three filters (Flexi Access Drawdown, General Investment Account, and ISA Transfer Capability) have moved in their rankings since 2022, each by no more than two places.

Defaqto also found that the use of sophisticated research tools was on the rise, with annual recommendation volumes through its Engage tool increasing from £49bn in 2024 to a projected £57bn in 2025.

It stated that this growth indicated that the industry’s commitment to enhanced due diligence and client-centric service was increasing.

Commenting on the findings, Defaqto insight manager, Darren Winfield, said: “The features advisers prioritise when evaluating platforms have remained remarkably consistent.

“This demonstrates that advisers were already focused on client outcomes and value well before Consumer Duty came into force. The regulation has reinforced, rather than changed, adviser behaviour.

“In today’s digital environment, the adviser’s research process increasingly mirrors consumer experiences on platforms such as Amazon, where filters and personalised options are expected and drive decision making.

“Advisers are using Engage’s capabilities in much the same way, ensuring platform recommendations are aligned to clients’ specific needs and personal preferences.”

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