Financial advisers will feel more positive in 2014 than they have for two years, according to the latest Zurich Risk Adviser Sentiment Index.

Compared with a year ago, they are more upbeat about the long-term viability of their practices, current and future sales volumes and demand for life insurance advice.

Regulation is the only category not to see an improved mood, with just 26.5% of advisers feeling positive about the current environment.

Zurich Life & Investments GM Retail Philip Kewin says 2013 will be considered a year of fatigue, driven by the Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) reforms, the federal election and low interest rates.

But the research shows advisers “will enter 2014 with more energy and more optimism” about the future.

“While the bedding-down of FOFA and other regulatory issues is still causing angst for some, I think there is a strong sense that the new government will bring with it a degree of stability and certainty for our industry,” he said.