Five Wealth recognised in Citywire’s Top 100 Financial Planning Firms for 2025

We’re pleased to share that Five Wealth has been named in the Citywire New Model Adviser Top 100 for 2025, an annual list celebrating some of the most forward-thinking and client-centred financial planning firms in the UK. While industry recognition is never our primary goal, it’s always meaningful when the work we do for clients is acknowledged in this way.

Why this recognition matters

Citywire’s Top 100 uses a detailed scoring framework to assess the quality of advice, investment propositions, client experience, technology, professional standards and long-term planning within each firm. Being included reflects the progress we’ve made over the past year to strengthen the support we provide and build a business designed to serve clients for decades to come.

For us, this recognition reinforces that the areas we continue to invest in – people, processes, technology and education – are the ones that genuinely enhance the experience and outcomes for our clients.

A year of development and meaningful growth

We have welcomed new advisers, continued to develop talent from within, and recruited both a COO and Compliance Officer to strengthen our operational foundations. Several long-standing team members have progressed into Director roles, supporting the next generation of leadership and ensuring continuity for clients as their financial journeys evolve.

Alongside team development, we have invested in improving our processes, refining our client proposition and enhancing the tools and technology we use day to day. Our rebrand and renewed focus on communication, including more events, thought leadership and community engagement, have helped us deepen our relationships across the North West.

This year also marked a major milestone, as we surpassed £1bn in assets under management for the first time. This growth has been driven largely by client referrals and the expansion of our adviser team, and we are grateful for the trust and confidence this reflects.

Continuing our commitment to education and community impact

Financial education remains a core part of our purpose. Our Next Generation workshops, community events and regular client updates aim to help people feel more informed and confident about their financial decisions at every stage of life. We also continue to support schools and local organisations to promote better financial literacy across the region.

Looking forward

Being named in the Citywire Top 100 is a proud moment, but more importantly, it validates the long-term approach we take to building a stable, values-led financial planning business. We’re committed to continuing to evolve, invest and grow in ways that support our clients’ ambitions.

Spotlight on… Elise Wright

Elise joined the Five Wealth team six months ago as a Financial Planning Assistant and has quickly become an integral part of the team. With nearly a decade of experience in the financial planning industry, Elise previously worked as an administrator at another firm, honing her expertise and supporting clients with dedication and professionalism. We had the opportunity to speak with Elise about her role at Five Wealth and her enthusiasm for contributing to the team’s continued success.

How would you describe your role to someone outside of finance?
I’m responsible for all the admin involved in our financial planning services, but also the technical aspects, which many people may not realise. As a financial planning assistant, we’re the ones placing all the investments on behalf of our clients, ensuring their decisions are done correctly and on time. Along with the adviser, I’m also one of the main points of contact for many clients, speaking with them regularly over the phone and email to ensure they’re aware of everything and know where things are at.

If we looked at your desk right now, what would it say about you?
I’d like to think it says I’m organised – everything has its place. Quite boring really! In the office, I’m known for my Taylor Swift lanyard because I’m a big Swiftie and guaranteed to be talking about Taylor Swift if you’re stopping for something. My desktop is clean, and everything is always organised in its own folders. You’ll never find my desk full of unnecessary clutter!

What’s a piece of financial wisdom you’d give your younger self?

What I love most about financial planning is pensions. They don’t always feel exciting, especially when you’re young, but they’re one of the most powerful tools for your future. Too often people my age opt out because retirement feels like a lifetime away, but the truth is, the earlier you start, the more freedom and choices you’ll give your future self.

If Five Wealth made a “team soundtrack,” what song would you add and why?
It would have to be Shake It Off by Taylor Swift. The world is full of uncertainty right now, whether that’s market volatility, changing taxes or tariffs. It can all feel overwhelming at times but at Five Wealth, we believe the best approach is to rise above the noise, ‘Shake It Off’ and focus on what really matters. Careful, thoughtful and prudent financial planning in rocky times is key. By shaking off the noise, we’re all about staying grounded and helping our clients feel secure no matter what’s happening in the wider economic environment.

What’s a little-known fact or fun story about you that colleagues might be surprised to hear?
I was told I can’t leave this interview without mentioning my second job. I work for a bookmaker at weekends, so I spend a lot of time at the horse racing. It’s my brother’s company; he’s been in the industry since 2018 and I’ve worked there for the last 4-5 years. It’s just a fun thing to do on the side. A lot of it is numbers-based and computerised, so you’re not working out the odds off the top of your head!