Risk is rising. Clients want reassurance – and interest rates are still high. Cash offers a rare mix of security, flexibility, and – right now – attractive returns.
But there’s more to cash than just holding it. The real opportunity is helping your clients use it strategically.
In this article, we explain the benefits of laddering – for your clients and your business.
What is laddering?
Laddering is a smarter way to invest cash – spreading it across accounts that mature at different times. By mixing Instant Access, Notice, and Fixed Term accounts, clients can keep money handy for emergencies while locking in higher rates.
It’s the best of both worlds. Flexibility when they need it, better returns when they don’t.
Designed to deliver access, protection, and performance in one go, a laddered approach keeps cash moving and earning.
Here’s an example of how investing £100,000 could work over five years.
As each account matures, reinvesting the funds into a new account with a longer term and better interest rate will gradually build a ladder that maximises returns while ensuring liquidity.
Why laddering makes sense for your clients
Helps grow their cash
Usually, the longer the Fixed Term, the more interest clients earn. And a mix of accounts means they can benefit from higher interest rates without sacrificing access. With notice accounts from 30 to 180 days, and Fixed Terms from 1 month to 7 years, there’s something for everyone.
Supports different goals
Most clients will have several savings priorities – emergency funds, planned purchases, and long-term reserves and aims. Laddering helps separate the different pots clearly, making planning easier and helping to control impulse spending.
Protects more of their money
FSCS protection is capped at £85,000 per individual, per bank. One failure and anything above that could mean thousands lost. Laddering encourages your clients to spread their cash across different banks and accounts – protecting more of their money.
Provides complete visibility
Instead of one big pot, laddering shows clients exactly what they have, how it’s growing, and when it’s available.
Why laddering works for advisers too
Our March 2025 survey revealed that 36% of advisers offered more advice on cash in the last four months. And 30% said their clients wanted to increase their cash deposits.
According to Lynne Gadsden, a partner at St James’s Place, wealth managers who provide advice on cash have a clear advantage:
In a competitive market, I’m a firm believer that advisers who understand the full picture of their clients' wealth, provide holistic advice, and offer an opportunity for growth, stand out.
To add more value to your clients’ cash, you can help them build a laddered portfolio as part of an overall planning service.
For risk-averse clients or those new to advice, starting with cash builds trust early on. It shows you’re thinking strategically – about growth, security, access, and long-term value.
If you prefer a lighter touch, you can refer clients to our Flagstone platform where they can build and manage their own laddered portfolio. You stay hands-free while your clients get access to 60+ banks, competitive rates, and the flexibility to shape their savings.
Our simple Instant Access, Notice and Fixed Term guides can help clients understand their options and feel confident from day one. And for more information, our client-focused piece on laddered accounts is available here.
Cash laddering – strategic, flexible, and future-proof
Whether you're actively managing the portfolio or simply referring clients to Flagstone, laddering creates structure and confidence. Your clients will earn more and their money will be protected.
Ready to help your clients build smarter cash strategies?
