It has been a year of many challenges and no doubt one many hope to forget.
It is easy to look back at the past 12 months and only see a litany of destruction and hardship.
While you would all have your own personal lessons to take with you into the new year, one of the key lessons from 2009 would surely be the importance of having your voice as an industry heard.
In the past year alone, the financial services profession has come under attack on varying levels.
Financial planners have been hammered at the lowest point, with revenues battered as clients shy away from seeking advice in the face of corporate collapses.
While the markets acted as the catalyst for investor worry, planners shouldered much of the blame.
Yet despite the resentment from investors, the advice sector took a stand, joining industry associations in directly lobbying local members of parliament over professional concerns. What has surprised many is that their voices are starting to be heard.
The pride that many advisers, both at a principal and executive level, have shown regarding their profession could be celebrated.
Now we must turn our attention to 2010.
As predictions for 2010 begin to trickle in, it is safe to say that, forecasts aside, we would all like a year that bares no similarities to 2009.
Though despite these pleas, there is no doubt the next 12 months will involve further change for the industry.
The first half of the year may well be dominated by the findings of the Cooper review of Australia's superannuation system.
Industry consolidation may also heat up, with the introduction of new regulation forcing many to exit the market. A rosier picture on the recruitment front may also be on the cards.
At this stage we can only hope for positive change.
On a personal note, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our readers, for your continued support.
I would also like to thank the IFA team for their efforts this year.
May everyone have a safe and relaxing break, and we look forward to returning in the new year.
