I’m currently recovering from FP Live! but still buzzing from the energy, insights and conversations that unfolded yesterday. This was the third edition of the event, and it really cemented why it’s a must-attend for anyone working in marketing and communications in financial services.
A few themes stood out for me. First, storytelling is more important than ever. Across every panel and discussion, the message was clear that people aren’t just buying products anymore. Instead, they’re buying the brand, the values it represents and the lifestyle it makes feel achievable.
Unsurprisingly, AI was another hot topic that dominated much of the conversation. The advantage of holding a conference year-on-year is seeing how certain discussions evolve. The topic of AI has shifted from “could AI be important?” to “here’s how it’s being used practically in marketing today.”
What really struck me was that it’s not just brands using AI; customers are too. People are increasingly turning to tools like ChatGPT when researching products and services, which means what shows up about your brand in these conversations is now critical.
Regulation was also another highlight. You might expect marketers to see rules as a constraint, but the consensus was the opposite as regulation provides clarity, structure and a framework that actually sparks creativity rather than stifles it. It’s about doing the right thing, with guidance that strengthens communication.
Of course, FP Live! isn’t just about what happens on stage. Some of the most valuable moments happened off-stage whether that be delegates catching a word with a speaker after a panel, sharing ideas in the networking café or chatting with exhibitors. Walking around, it was amazing to see how many meaningful conversations were happening simultaneously and that energy and exchange simply can’t be replicated online.
To everyone who made it possible – the speakers, sponsors, organisers and every delegate who joined the conversations – a huge thank you. The insights shared, the experiences exchanged and the connections made are what make FP Live! so special.
If you’re in financial marketing and you weren’t there this year, make it a priority next year. From practical takeaways to best practices to the incredible networking opportunities with top-level marketers and agency, it’s an experience that will leave you inspired, challenged and better equipped for the year ahead.
It’s the kind of event where delegates return to the office able to answer ‘what did you learn?’ or ‘what was the value?’ with clear, practical insights they can apply and tangible ways to tackle specific challenges.
FP Live! isn’t just a conference. It’s a community, a hub of ideas and a space where the future of financial marketing is actively being shaped. Don’t miss it next year.