Acting in clients’ best interest is the most important task of a Financial Planner, according to a survey by the global Financial Planning Standards Board.

The results of the survey, which questioned over 11,000 CFP^CM professionals in 11 different countries, were revealed at the FPSB Board meeting in Washington DC.

The goal of the survey was to identify the applicability, importance and frequency of the tasks, skills and knowledge required to practice Financial Planning.

Other important Financial Planning tasks were complying with relevant rules and regulation and adhering to an ethical code.

Noel Maye, chief executive of the FPSB, said: “FPSB’s research shows that CFP professionals’ practice and principles align with the interests of clients which should provide confidence to those seeking expert advice on their financial and life goals.

“The feedback we have received from CFP professionals around the globe indicates that they have embraced a commitment to ethical behaviour and to establishing relationships of trust when working with clients.”

The survey also outlined the typical profile of a CFP professional. They were usually male aged between 35-54 with a high level of education and at least six years experience in financial services.

They typically worked in a firm with 50 or more employees and over 100 clients and had gained CFP certification in the last five years.

The FPSB says this demographic could mean opportunities for FPSB member organisations to attract younger candidates and more women to Financial Planning.