New research from the Folk Group shows the growing use by consumers of AI in searching for the best financial deals

The increasing use of AI as a financial advice tool could pose a threat to the business models of price comparison sites, claims new research.

A report from Cardiff-based strategic communications consultancy the Folk Group says that up to 50% of financial services website traffic could be at risk as AI tools begin to replace traditional search-led journeys.

It says that the price comparison model, built on the assumption that consumers arrive via Google search, complete a form, receive a ranked results table and click through to buy, is precisely the journey that AI is beginning to challenge.

Wales is home to some of the biggest players in the price comparison with Moneysupermarket, GoCompare and Confused. The industry was created in Wales with the first website launched by Admiral (Confused) in 2002.

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The AI and the Disruption of Financial Search and Distribution report, identifies early but clear signs of behavioural shift, with 11% of focus group participants already using AI to compare financial services products including insurance, mortgages and bank accounts.

However, price comparison sites remain the principal route for researching and choosing financial products such as car insurance. This is backed up by data from Mintel showing that 67% of UK adults have used a price comparison website to search for insurance policies in the last year.

For AI competitors the report says that regulatory and accuracy hurdles are high with direct price comparison and financial advice highly regulated. General purpose assistants like ChatGPT and Gemini are still prone to “hallucinations” (making up facts) and giving inaccurate or even risky davice on high-stakes financial questions

The report identifies three plausible paths for price comparison websites as AI reshapes consumer journeys:

• They are bypassed as consumers shift to conversational AI interfaces, their traffic thins and market share transfers to whoever owns the AI layer.
• They become the data backbone powering AI agent recommendations, surviving commercially but losing the direct customer relationship that has historically been their greatest asset.
• Price comparison websites moves quickly to build or acquire a regulated AI agent capability and competes for the conversational front door in financial services

Moneysupermarket became the first UK comparison brand to launch a ChatGPT app in February, a signal that at least one Welsh business is already moving toward the third path.

Dan Mines, co-founder of Menna.ai and former head of customer and innovation at Confused.com – which was acquired from Admiral by Uswitch in 2020 – said: “It’s not ‘ask Google’ time anymore, it’s ‘ask ChatGPT or Gemini.’ These tools fundamentally change consumer behaviour in terms of expectations.

“The consumption of the internet is changing; you’ve now got a much more diverse landscape, including AI assistants, social platforms, embedded finance and app-based ecosystems. Anyone whose distribution model was built around the browser-based journey needs to be asking hard questions now.”

Nicolas Weng Kan, former chief of both Confused.com and Google Compare, said: “Price comparison sites still offer a purely price-led vision, but customers don’t buy purely on price. AI can use your history, who you bought from before, to predict what you actually want, not just what’s cheapest. That’s a fundamentally different model.”

Sharon Flaherty, chief executive of the Folk Group and former head of communications at both Confused and Moneysupermarket, said: “Wales built the price comparison industry and it’s a genuine success story. These businesses changed how millions of people shop for financial products and drove a shopping around mentality to get the best deal.

“But what we’re seeing now is a shift that challenges the foundations that this success was built on. The businesses that understand how to navigate it, not just move fast will win. Those that don’t risk being displaced by players who weren’t even in this market five years ago.”

From the moment you step through a private foyer and into the sun-washed living area, it’s clear that $44 million buys more than just a view; it buys a masterpiece.

At the legendary Four Seasons Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, the modern coastal aesthetic is defined by striking architecture and a warm glow all around, illuminating custom millwork and slatted wood feature walls. Outside, rows of crisp white umbrellas line tranquil pool decks that reflect resort-style luxury.

For titans like former Starbucks Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz, this is the new “Wall Street South” — a place where floor-to-ceiling glass erases the line between a high-stakes boardroom and the turquoise horizon of the Atlantic.

“It seems like the frequent thread that we discuss is, if they can facilitate business here, why would they do it in a place that is freezing cold? They may as well do it sitting next to the ocean,” The Corcoran Group’s Mick Duchon told Fox News Digital during a showing of a $21.95 million unit in the same residential building Schultz just moved into.

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“What I find with a lot of the buyers that are looking in this space in the market, they never really retire,” he continued. “So they’re looking for the next step in their adventure, like [Schultz], and it’s an exciting place to take that step.”

The Four Seasons Private Residences at The Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, on Monday, March 23, 2026. (Getty Images)

Last month, Schultz and his wife announced they had relocated to Florida for their “retirement phase,” leaving Washington state after nearly half a century. Schultz shared the news in a post on LinkedIn, recounting how he, his wife Sheri, and their golden retriever, Jonas, made the move from New York City to Seattle 44 years ago.

“We were starting a new life,” Schultz wrote, recalling how Sheri would be their primary income earner as he started a new job “at a place called Starbucks” in September 1982.

“The spirit of continuing forward has long underpinned our approach to life—in business, in philanthropy and most importantly, as a family,” Schultz further wrote. “We will be forever grateful for the memories made in Seattle and the relationships built along the way… To the family, friends and partners who made Seattle our home for so many years, thank you.”

He and his wife purchased a $44 million penthouse at the Four Seasons Surf Club Residences, The Wall Street Journal first reported, down from an initial listing price of $55 million. It features five bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, central courtyard, private garage and oceanfront cabana.

Schultz’s announcement came as Washington state has been working to pass what has been dubbed the “millionaires tax,” which would impose a 9.9% income tax on households earning more than $1 million annually. The Washington State House of Representatives passed the controversial bill in a 51-46 vote, and it was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson on Monday.

“The wealth tax as a threat in the states that potentially may implement… is a major catalyst for these high-net-worth people moving here, and where we are right now at the Four Seasons Surf Club is a perfect landing for them because of everything that it offers,” Duchon said.

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Living at the Four Seasons Surfside means buying into a history where Winston Churchill used to paint and the Rat Pack hung out. In 2026, it has been updated for the modern business leader with dining by three-Michelin-starred Thomas Keller and a state-of-the-art hammam and spa.

“The 1930s history… creates this historical importance, and it just adds character to the property, which is meaningful. It has a story built into the property that these people really appreciate,” Duchon noted. “It creates a place that these people are comfortable in.”

“The lifestyle here is extraordinary, the climate’s extraordinary, and the landscape is unbelievable and there’s a few properties — the Surf Club being one of them — that really fits the criteria that they’re looking for from a service perspective, an exclusivity perspective, security, architecture, design and location,” he added.

The billionaire landing pad that Duchon has as a pending sale is a turnkey four-bedroom, multiple-bathroom sanctuary spanning just over 5,000 square feet. Upon entering, guests are greeted by fine art, remarkable light fixtures and calming, comfortable white and beige furniture. In the dining area, a bespoke travertine wine cellar towers to the ceiling. The primary lounging space feels vast and grand, all while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

When it comes to greater Miami, some might see a cooling market. However, insiders argue that in the ultra-luxury tier, the rules of traditional real estate don’t apply.

“The market dictates the price, and sellers are entitled to ask whatever they want,” he continued. “The price points are open oftentimes, there isn’t a ceiling… They’re oftentimes willing to spend more than any other transactions in order to achieve what they want.”

“That market is separate from the rest of the market,” he expanded, “and there’s only specific properties that those high-net-worth people would consider, including Indian Creek, the Four Seasons… It’s a specific demographic that we’re focusing on, and it’s only really a specific type of product that they’re going to be interested in.”

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As the sun sets over the emerald green lawns and white cabanas at the Surf Club, the message to the rest of the country is clear: Miami is the new destination for American capital and culture. The multimillion-dollar sales aren’t just isolated events; they are the catalysts for a “trickle-down” economy that is “really growing culturally” at a record pace.

“The transactions that are occurring now in this price point, they create a lot of momentum for the rest of the market, and it does have a trickle-down effect,” Duchon said. “It’s across the other markets on the islands and single-family homes and other condos… It has created more demand and appreciation comes from that. But it is a market within itself. So there are other spaces within the Miami market that are pretty stable and steady and approachable.”

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FOX Business’ Stephen Sorace contributed to this report.

SYDNEY — Sydneysiders and visitors can look forward to a mix of family fun, outdoor adventures and selective shopping during the Easter long weekend 2026, which runs from Good Friday, April 3, to Easter Monday, April 6.

New South Wales treats Good Friday and Easter Sunday as restricted trading days, meaning most major retail stores, supermarkets and shopping centres must close. Easter Saturday operates under normal trading rules, while Easter Monday follows public holiday hours with many businesses open but often on reduced schedules.

Good Friday (April 3) Most large retailers, including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi stores across Sydney, remain closed. Westfield shopping centres and other major malls are shut for the day. Small exempt businesses such as pharmacies, petrol stations, convenience stores and some fruit and vegetable shops may open with limited hours. Many cafes and restaurants in tourist areas stay open, though some apply public holiday surcharges.

Easter Saturday (April 4) Trading returns to normal with no restrictions. Most supermarkets, department stores and shopping centres operate standard hours, typically 9am to 5pm or 6pm at Westfield locations and similar centres. This is often the busiest shopping day of the weekend.

Easter Sunday (April 5) Another restricted day in NSW. Major supermarkets and most Westfield centres close, though a small number of exempt or regional stores may trade. Some smaller independent retailers and tourist-focused outlets remain open. Dining options are widely available, especially near harbourside and beach precincts.

Easter Monday (April 6) Public holiday trading applies with fewer restrictions. Most supermarkets reopen, often from 8am to 8pm with some variations. Shopping centres typically open from around 9:30am or 10am to 4pm or 6pm. Check individual venues, as hours can differ.

Supermarkets and grocery stores

• Coles, Woolworths and Aldi: Closed Good Friday and largely closed Easter Sunday in metro Sydney; open normal or extended hours Easter Saturday and Monday.
• Smaller IGA or independent grocers may have more flexible hours on restricted days. Bottle shops face tighter rules, particularly on Good Friday when alcohol sales are heavily restricted unless served with a meal at licensed venues.

Cafes, restaurants and diningPlenty of options stay open across the long weekend, especially in popular areas such as the CBD, Darling Harbour, Bondi, Manly and Surry Hills. Chains like Bills, Black Star Pastry and many harbourside spots operate with adjusted hours and possible surcharges. Book ahead for popular venues, particularly on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Public transport Transport for NSW runs on a Sunday or public holiday timetable for Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, with fewer services than weekdays. Extra trains serve Sydney Olympic Park for the Royal Easter Show. Ferries and light rail generally follow holiday schedules. Travellers should check the Transport NSW app or website for real-time updates and allow extra time.

Major attractions and activities Many of Sydney’s top draws operate throughout the Easter long weekend, though crowds are expected and advance booking is recommended.

• Sydney Royal Easter Show: Runs from Thursday, April 2, to Monday, April 13, at Sydney Olympic Park. Gates open daily around 8:30am. Families can enjoy rides, showbags, animal displays, fireworks and entertainment. This is one of the biggest draws of the period.
• Sydney Family Easter Show at the Entertainment Quarter (Moore Park): Features rides, animals and activities from early April.
• Beaches and outdoors: Bondi, Manly, Coogee and other beaches remain open for swimming, surfing and walks. Coastal tracks and national parks are popular for hiking.
• Iconic experiences: Sydney Harbour Bridge climbs, Opera House tours, Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Luna Park typically open with possible adjusted hours. Harbour cruises and ferry rides offer scenic alternatives.
• Easter egg hunts and family events: Venues such as The Grounds of Alexandria, Centennial Parklands and various gardens host egg hunts and seasonal activities, often on Good Friday through Easter Sunday.
• Markets and other events: Some local markets and Easter-themed fairs operate, though major retail centres are limited on restricted days.

Tips for the weekendPlan grocery shopping for Thursday or Easter Saturday to avoid shortages. Book tickets for major attractions and restaurants early, as demand spikes. Public holiday parking and traffic rules apply, with potential congestion near Olympic Park and harbourside spots. Weather in early April is usually mild and pleasant for outdoor activities, but check forecasts.

Essential services including hospitals, emergency services and selected pharmacies remain available. Many smaller cafes and takeaway outlets provide coffee and meals when big chains close.

The Easter long weekend offers a balance of relaxation and excitement in Sydney. Whether hunting for chocolate eggs at family events, exploring the Royal Easter Show or enjoying a harbourside walk, plenty of options exist despite retail restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

For the latest updates, consult official websites for individual stores, attractions and Transport for NSW, as hours can change.