The collapse of Tenet has left nearly 10,000 customers in financial limbo, raising pressing questions about the effectiveness of consumer protection in the UK’s financial services industry. These individuals, who trusted a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) registered firm and its advisers, now face a sobering reality: they’re left to rely on the Financial Services Compensation … Continue reading Where’s the Justice? The Tenet Collapse and the Cost to Consumers
Tag: uk
Pensions at Risk: Are Consumers Being Let Down by the FCA’s Latest Proposals?
The Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) recent Consultation Paper CP24/27 – Advice Guidance Boundary Review proposes reforms to deliver "targeted support" for pension savers. At first glance, this initiative seems to promise much-needed assistance for the millions of UK pension savers navigating complex retirement decisions. However, a closer examination raises important questions about who these changes … Continue reading Pensions at Risk: Are Consumers Being Let Down by the FCA’s Latest Proposals?
Why Holistic Wealth Planners Can Benefit from Membership in a Professional Community
As the regulatory landscape for financial services evolves, non-FCA-regulated financial planners—referred to as holistic wealth planners—find themselves navigating a complex environment. While their work is distinct from that of FCA-authorised advisers, there are overlapping considerations, particularly around governance, transparency, and client outcomes. By joining a community of like-minded planners, holistic wealth planners can align with … Continue reading Why Holistic Wealth Planners Can Benefit from Membership in a Professional Community
The Conflicted Role of the UK Financial Regulator: Who Does the FCA Really Serve?
In the complex web of UK financial regulation, one fundamental truth should be self-evident: the protection of consumers must come first. After all, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) was established with a primary mandate to safeguard the public from harm caused by financial misconduct. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its ability—and willingness—to … Continue reading The Conflicted Role of the UK Financial Regulator: Who Does the FCA Really Serve?
Unjust Governance: The FCA’s Burden on Small Financial Firms
In the realm of financial services, the level of reporting required by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for small firms has become disproportionate compared to other industries. Despite the pandemic being behind us, COVID-related reports continue unabated, adding to the regulatory burden. Complaints made to MPs and the Treasury are simply passed on to the … Continue reading Unjust Governance: The FCA’s Burden on Small Financial Firms
Ongoing Advice Review: Could the FCA Follow Australia’s Nuclear Option?
As we enter H2 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is on the verge of announcing the results of their much-anticipated advice review involving the UK's top 20 financial advice firms. The whisperings from the regulatory grapevine suggest that some of these big boys have been more than a little naughty, with at least two … Continue reading Ongoing Advice Review: Could the FCA Follow Australia’s Nuclear Option?
The Perilous Path of Personal Investment Firms: Navigating a Minefield of Liabilities
In an environment where the allure of the financial services sector continues to draw ambitious players, the recent proposals by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) cast a long shadow over the viability and attractiveness of operating as a Personal Investment Firm (PIF). This article explores the daunting challenges and potential liabilities that come part and … Continue reading The Perilous Path of Personal Investment Firms: Navigating a Minefield of Liabilities
The FCA’s Controversial Strategy: A Catalyst for Change in the Financial Advisory Landscape
The Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) recent announcement to 'name and shame' firms under investigation has sparked significant debate within the financial services sector. With approximately two-thirds of these investigations concluding without further action, there's a growing concern among regulated advisers about the potential for unwarranted reputational damage. This aggressive enforcement tactic may lead advisers to … Continue reading The FCA’s Controversial Strategy: A Catalyst for Change in the Financial Advisory Landscape
The Imperative for Clarity in the UK’s Financial Advisory Services
The UK's financial services sector is undergoing significant transformation, shaped by evolving consumer needs, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. This dynamic landscape necessitates a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities within the industry, particularly concerning financial advice and planning. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) plays a pivotal role in this context, setting the standards … Continue reading The Imperative for Clarity in the UK’s Financial Advisory Services
