What is the Citywire New Model Adviser Top 100?
Each year, Citywire's New Model Adviser publishes its Top100 list, recognising 100 of the UK's leading financial planning businesses from those that apply. The selection process goes beyond the size of a firm or the amount of money it advises on. Citywire assesses businesses against a range of criteria, including professional qualifications, client service, investment approaches, staff development, innovation, technology and contributions to the wider profession and community. For 2026, Citywire refreshed its assessment methodology, updating its scoring criteria and weightings to reflect the changing financial advice landscape.
Jack Gilbert, editor of New Model Adviser, commented on the strength of this year's entrants:
"Every year we see applications from high-quality businesses, but this year the bar seemed higher than ever."
To be recognised for a fourth consecutive year, particularly against such strong competition, is something we're incredibly proud of.
Another Year of Growth and Investment at HCI
Over the past 12 months, HCI has continued to grow, develop and invest in the services we provide.
We've continued to embrace new technology, introducing tools to improve efficiency, strengthen compliance and enhance the way we support our clients. This includes the phased introduction of artificial intelligence, alongside improvements to our internal systems and processes.
While technology is helping us work smarter, we firmly believe that trusted relationships and personal financial advice remain at the heart of what we do.
Four Years of Recognition, One Consistent Commitment
Being named among the UK's Top 100 financial planning firms in 2023, 2024, 2025 and now 2026 is especially meaningful because it demonstrates our ongoing commitment to maintaining high professional standards.
As an independent, Chartered financial planning firm based in Hawarden, near Chester, we are proud to support individuals, families and businesses throughout North Wales, Cheshire, Merseyside and the wider North West.
Our Chartered status reflects our commitment to professional excellence, ethical standards and continued development. Our independence means we can consider solutions from across the market, recommending financial arrangements tailored to each client's individual needs and circumstances.
Whether we're helping someone plan for retirement, manage their investments, protect their family or plan for the next generation, our focus remains the same: providing clear, personalised financial advice that helps clients make confident decisions about their future.
A Thank You to Our Clients and Team
Achievements like this are only possible because of the people behind HCI.
To our clients, thank you. We are incredibly grateful for the trust you place in us, the relationships we've built and the opportunity to support you through some of life's most important financial decisions.
To our team, thank you. From our financial planners and paraplanners to our client relationship managers and operations colleagues, everyone plays an important part in delivering the service our clients value. This recognition is a reflection of your hard work, professionalism and commitment.
We are proud of how far HCI has come, and even more excited about what lies ahead.
