Once again, the Cornerstone Expo 2024 provided attendees with a great event full of insights, advice and tips that can help advisers in the field. If you missed it, don’t worry – here’s our roundup of the key sessions and takeaways for your business.
Economic Outlook – Stuart Hutchinson (Brooks Macdonald)
Stuart kicked things off with an engaging session about the economy’s current state and what’s on the horizon for advisers. He emphasised that inflation is still in control, shaping market behaviour and consumer confidence. He also commented on the implications of a Trump presidency and it’s potential to impact the UK economic outlook.
Adviser takeaway: ‘Balance is key,’ Stuart explained. For advisers, this means diversifying their approach when advising clients. Whether it’s investments, lending, or long-term planning, keeping options open and adaptable is crucial in uncertain economic conditions. Stuart highlighted that even though inflation remains a concern, resilient consumer spending and corporate profits are driving opportunities.
Adviser tip: Keep your eyes on the economy, primarily interest rate trends. Update your clients on how these changes would impact their mortgage options and general financial well-being.
Economic Crime – Lee Jones
Fraud prevention expert Lee Jones from the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office delivered a session that left attendees well informed. Fraud makes up 40% of all reported crimes in the UK. Lee broke down common scams targeting the financial sector and shared actionable prevention tips.
Adviser takeaway: Fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, often targeting individuals as the weakest link in financial transactions. Staying vigilant is essential, from phishing to investment scams.
Adviser tip: Help clients protect themselves by encouraging strong cybersecurity habits. For example, recommend regularly updating passwords and avoiding unsolicited emails or messages promising high returns. Your vigilance can save clients from costly mistakes and earn their trust.
How Much Do You Want to Earn in 2025? – Roger Morris (CHL Mortgages)
Roger’s session focused on increasing earnings as a mortgage and protection adviser. He shared practical tools like performance tracking formulas and cross-selling strategies that can make a big difference to your bottom line.
Adviser takeaway: One of Roger’s standout points was the importance of product density – selling complementary products alongside mortgages to improve client satisfaction and increase commission.
Adviser tip: Track lead sources diligently. Understanding your strengths (and weaknesses) will allow you to hone your strategy and concentrate on the most lucrative opportunities.
Valuing HMOS – Matthew Mason (Certus Property Consultants)
Valuing HMOs can feel like navigating a maze, but Matthew made it simple. He provided real-world examples to explain the intricacies of valuation, from lender expectations to regional planning rules.
Adviser takeaway: Never forget to look at a property’s planning classification. Stricter Article 4 Directions in Wales, for example, mean you’re likely to need planning permission to convert a property into an HMO, which can have major implications for its value.
Adviser tip: Educate your clients about the valuation process early. Being transparent about potential challenges, like stricter lending criteria or the need for planning permissions, builds trust and saves time.
Simplifying Life’s Most Important Payments – Currencies Direct
We’re living in a digital future, and Currencies Direct’s team helpfully illustrated how far that tech can take you. The session showcased the advantages of automating payment flows with APIs and embedding your financial solution into your process.
Adviser takeaway: Automation is not just about efficiency but improving client experience. Streamlining workflows and offering seamless international payment options can set you apart.
Adviser tip: Look for tech solutions you can use in your business. The right tools, such as APIs for payment processing or even implementing a solid CRM system, can be great time savers and help you offer additional services. Cornerstone continues to use the market leading Acre CRM solution across it’sits adviser network.
Recognising Excellence – The Cornerstone Network Awards
A highlight of the event was the celebration of brokers and businesses excelling in the field. From ‘Mortgage Broker of the Year’ to ‘Rising Star of 2024’ – the awards recognised outstanding contributions to the industry.
Congratulations to this year’s worthy winners:
- Sturgess Mortgage Solutions (Mortgage Broker of the Year 2024)
- Mike Powell Mortgages (Large Mortgage Broker of the Year 2024)
- M King FS (Protection Broker of the Year 2024)
- AIM Mortgages (Multi-channel Broker of the Year 2024)
- Home Equity Release (Rising Star of 2024)
Takeaway: Celebrating success isn’t just about awards – it’s a reminder of what’s possible when you innovate and prioritise client outcomes.
Adviser tip: Network with award winners and get to know their stories. What are their business tactics? How do they keep up with market trends? Learning from their best practices can improve your business too.
