This week, we had the opportunity to attend HomeGame 5 at the Glasgow Science Centre (IMAX) – and it didn’t disappoint! True to their word, the lang cat delivered an event that stood apart from a typical financial services conference. What unfolded was a confident, forward-thinking day about the future of the advice industry, setting a bold tone for what’s to come. 

The themes were clear: new blood, new tech and new ways of working. The event tackled two of the industry's most pressing questions head-on: 

  • How do we make financial planning more visible and attractive to the next generation?
  • How do we embrace technology without losing the human connection that defines great advice?

The triple-track approach – engaging planners, industry, and young people/educators – was inspired. It was genuinely encouraging to see students and emerging talent sharing the space with experienced professionals, creating a powerful sense of collaboration and shared purpose.

What made this event so special? 

  • The venue: taking over the Glasgow Science Centre made the day feel fresh and dynamic. The IMAX screen for the main sessions was a showstopper.
  • The networking: one of the real highlights was the chance to connect. It wasn’t just about bumping into familiar faces – though it was great to catch up with long-standing peers – it was also about meeting new voices from across the profession. The mix of planners, providers, educators, and students created conversations you don’t often get at industry events.
  • The live financial planning session: this was the real game-changer. Watching two planners build a full plan in two hours (which would normally take a couple of weeks) – live, unrehearsed, and tech-enabled – was fascinating. The scenario was built around the character Charlie, a construction business owner with complex family and succession planning needs. This brought real-world challenges to life. Seeing AI tools in action alongside human expertise was a glimpse into the very near future. 

Our takeaway

Financial planning is evolving fast. To attract new talent and stay relevant, you must showcase the creativity, technology, and human impact that make this profession so rewarding - and HomeGame 5 nailed that message.

Events like this are a powerful reminder that innovation only works when it’s built on strong foundations. Embedding robust standards and quality integrations across adviser processes - from onboarding to Letters of Authority – is what makes technology truly effective. When systems connect seamlessly, you can focus on what really matters: building trust, delivering value, and creating better outcomes for clients.

Your clients expect speed and clarity, and tomorrow’s professionals want to work in firms that feel modern and connected. If you get this right, your firm will shape the next chapter of financial planning.