It feels like we have been talking about it for years. So we can finally breathe a sigh of relief in five months’ time, when on 1 September, the FCA’s newest capital requirements on Sipp providers come into action.

Although it may not directly impact advisers now, if a provider cannot meet the amount required, then clients will be directly affected.

One thing we don’t know, however, is what is going to happen to those providers who are unable to meet the limits. The FCA has yet to reveal its plans for firms who have below 100 per cent in reserve.

Many providers are still not telling us what percentage of the required amount they currently have. We can only hope this coyness is down to company policy, rather than a lack of funds in reserve.

The survey shows that Sipps have enjoyed a huge success since the retirement freedoms. The amount the product has grown in a short period of time tells that pensions are booming and there is clear demand for Sipps. The type of product varies, and platform-only Sipps seem to be overtaking true full Sipps. Platform-only products will always have a place in the market, but they are becoming increasingly different to full Sipps.

Elsewhere in this supplement, Barnett Waddingham’s Andy Leggett tells us his guide to fees in property cases, and whether or not it is best to have fixed

fees or time-cost. Dentons’ Martin Tilley discusses transparency and why Sipps are not ‘rip-off pensions’ as some tabloids have suggested. Jessica List from Suffolk Life explains the position of different beneficiaries when it comes to death benefits. And Rowanmoor’s Robert Graves explains non-standard assets and what you should be aware of.

As ever, we welcome any views and feedback.

charlotte.richards@ft.com