Consumer Credit regulatory updates from United Kingdom.
We track 58 Consumer Credit updates from United Kingdom regulators, published by FCA and PRA. The archive covers 37 news items, 7 enforcement actions and 5 warnings. Most recent update: September 2026. Coverage runs from 2025 to 2026.
UnauthorizedThis firm may be providing or promoting financial services or products without our permission. You should avoid dealing with this firm and beware of scams. Almost all firms and individuals must be authorised or registered by us to carry out or promote financial services in the UK. This firm is not…
Why this matters
The content is a standard FCA warning notice against an unauthorised firm (www.approvedcarclaim.com) operating in the car claims sector without permission. It informs consumers of the lack of Financial Ombudsman Service and FSCS protections and directs them to use the FCA Firm Checker.
People seeking debt advice are being urged to watch out for red flags. Free debt advice is available to everyone. However, the FCA is concerned that some consumers are being steered towards fee-paying debt solutions that may not be suitable for their needs, sometimes through high pressure sales tactics, misleading…
Why this matters
This is a consumer protection alert from the FCA targeting debt advice firms engaging in pressure sales, misleading information, and steering consumers toward unsuitable fee-paying solutions.
The FCA has begun High Court proceedings against Osborne Baldwin Limited, which trades as Hunter Jones and Hunter Jones Group. The FCA alleges that Hunter Jones, which sells loan notes, carries out regulated activity without authorisation. The FCA is asking the court to stop Hunter Jones carrying out regulated…
Why this matters
This is an active enforcement case (High Court proceedings) against an unauthorised firm selling loan notes. The FCA is seeking injunctive relief and restitution, which affects investor protection and the broader compliance landscape for firms operating in investment/lending space.
Speech by Lucy Castledine, director of consumer investments, at the 2026 Investor Summit. Speaker: Lucy Castledine, director, consumer investmentsEvent: Investor Summit 2026, LondonDelivered: 18 September 2026Note: This is the speech as drafted and may differ from the delivered versionReading time: 7 minutesKey…
Why this matters
This is an FCA director's speech outlining the regulator's strategic direction on retail investments. It references several live or imminent regulatory changes: the Targeted Support regime (already live in April 2026 with 9 authorised firms), simplified advice framework (consultation completed, policy statement...
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) could access finance more easily after the FCA sets out practical steps to help. An FCA review found no evidence that its regulation is a major barrier for SME access to finance. Many of the challenges identified relate to wider market, information and capability…
Why this matters
This is an informational speech outlining the FCA's review findings and next steps to support SME access to finance. The content signals regulatory direction on three specific areas: proportionate regulation via Consumer Credit Act reform, open finance development with SME lending as a use case, and monitoring of...
During our review of consumer vulnerability, we saw how relatively simple changes can make a real difference. One payments provider serving small business customers found that some customers were struggling to set up and manage their accounts because of limited IT literacy.The firm responded by arranging callback…
Why this matters
This is an FCA news/guidance piece explaining findings from a consumer vulnerability review and providing practical guidance on Consumer Duty compliance for payments and e-money firms.
Thousands of young adults could be sitting on a forgotten pot of savings as they head back to college and university. As students return to college and university this month, the FCA is urging young adults and parents to check whether they have a forgotten Child Trust Fund waiting to be claimed – potentially worth…
Why this matters
The FCA alert addresses consumer protection concerns around Child Trust Fund claims management fees and unregulated intermediaries, coupled with an announced review examining fair value under Consumer Duty and barriers for vulnerable young adults.
CloneFraudsters copy the details of firms we authorise to try and convince people that their firm is genuine. Find out why you shouldn’t deal with this clone firm. Almost all firms and individuals must be authorised or registered by us to carry out or promote financial services in the UK. This firm is not authorised…
Why this matters
The FCA warning identifies a fraudulent clone of an authorised PCP claims firm (Jigsaw Claims Ltd). The content is administrative in nature—a specific scam alert—but carries high urgency because it warns of active fraud targeting consumers.
The FCA has banned Howard Roland Duckett from working in financial services due to a serious lack of honesty and integrity. Mr Duckett was a senior manager at Beauforce Corporation Limited, a debt management firm. The High Court has disqualified Mr Duckett from acting as a company director for 10 years. It found that…
AI Analysis
The FCA has prohibited Howard Roland Duckett from performing any function in relation to regulated activities after finding a serious lack of honesty and integrity, including concealing a 10-year company-director disqualification and failing to disclose it to the FCA. The case reinforces that firms must verify senior managers’ fitness and propriety, maintain accurate regulatory records, and escalate material changes promptly; independent industry coverage presents the action as part of the broader supervisory failure at Beauforce, where the FCA also stopped regulated debt-management activity and required client-money remediation.
Key dates
2020-11-13
The High Court disqualified Howard Roland Duckett from acting as a company director for 10 years under section 6 of the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.
2020-12-04
The 10-year company-director disqualification took effect and is stated to run until 2030-12-04.
2025-11-20
The FCA identified this date in consumer communications as the point after which payments requested by Beauforce should be reported; the firm was restricted from regulated activities and ordered to stop accepting consumer money.
2026-08-18
The FCA announced the prohibition of Howard Roland Duckett from performing functions in relation to regulated activities.
Suggested considerations
Compliance teams may wish to review fitness-and-propriety checks for current and prospective senior managers, including searches for director disqualifications, litigation findings, insolvency events, and other adverse information.
Firms should consider confirming that senior managers have disclosed all matters relevant to their approval and that changes affecting their fitness, propriety, or ability to perform an SMF are escalated and notified to the FCA where required.
Firms should consider testing compliance with FCA Principle 11, COCON 2.2.4R, and SUP 10C.14.18R in relation to open, cooperative, and timely dealings with the FCA and notification of disqualifications or other relevant changes.
Boards and compliance functions may wish to assess whether regulatory records, management-accountability maps, company-director registers, and evidence supporting senior-manager attestations are complete, consistent, and independently verifiable.
Consumer-credit firms should consider reviewing controls over debt-management client payments, client-money safeguarding, communications, and contingency arrangements for transferring customers if permissions are restricted or withdrawn.
Firms should consider screening current staff and approved persons against the FCA Financial Services Register and relevant Companies House director-disqualification information before appointment and periodically thereafter.
Compliance teams may wish to use the case in senior-manager and conduct-risk training to reinforce that misleading the FCA or relying on fabricated information can independently support prohibition, even where the underlying misconduct occurred at an unrelated company.
What changed
The FCA made an individual prohibition order under section 56 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and withdrew Duckett’s approval to perform the SMF3 Executive Director and SMF16 Compliance Oversight functions under section 63 of that Act. This is an enforcement outcome against a specific individual rather than a new generally applicable rule. The underlying conduct included inadequate company records, repeated lies and reliance on fabricated evidence in High Court proceedings, and failure to notify the FCA of a director disqualification.
Compliance impact
The case demonstrates that dishonesty, fabricated evidence, and non-disclosure of a director disqualification can result in a prohibition from the entire UK regulated financial-services sector and withdrawal of senior-management approvals. For firms, the connected Beauforce action illustrates potential consequences of weak senior-manager oversight and regulatory non-disclosure, including restrictions on business, cessation of customer payments, and client-money return obligations.
We are concerned about a number of risks among unregulated lenders, safe custody providers, money brokers and financial leasing companies (Annex 1 firms). Firms including unregulated lenders, safe custody providers, money brokers and financial leasing companies, need to be registered with us for anti-money laundering…
AI Analysis
The FCA has announced that it is increasing scrutiny of **Annex 1 firms**—including unregulated lenders, safe custody providers, money brokers, and financial leasing companies—because of perceived financial crime and consumer-risk vulnerabilities. The key compliance message is that these firms must be **registered with the FCA for AML purposes**, must show they can comply with the Money Laundering Regulations, and should expect **longer registration timelines** and more intrusive supervisory information requests.
Key dates
20 March 2026
- The FCA published the statement announcing increased scrutiny of Annex 1 firms and warning that registration applications should be expected to take longer
TBD (ongoing, from the date of publication)
- Annex 1 firms that are not registered should submit a registration application before continuing Annex 1 activity, because the FCA states such firms need to be registered for AML purposes
TBD (ongoing supervisory cycle)
- Around 900 Annex 1 firms are subject to FCA information requests to support supervisory risk assessment and intelligence gathering
Suggested considerations
Confirm whether any UK business line falls within Annex 1 scope and, if so, verify that the entity is registered with the FCA for AML purposes before continuing the activity.
Submit a registration application immediately if the firm carries on Annex 1 activity without being registered.
Reassess the firm’s AML framework at entity level, rather than relying on group-level policies or parent-company controls, and document why the controls are appropriate for the firm’s own risks and operations.
Replace any generic or off-the-shelf procedures with policies, controls, and procedures tailored to the firm’s actual products, customers, geographies, and delivery model.
Prepare evidence of MLR compliance for FCA review, including risk assessment logic, governance arrangements, customer due diligence processes, and monitoring controls.
What changed
- The FCA is closely scrutinising applications to register as an Annex 1 firm, indicating a tougher gateway for new registrations and potentially more refusals or delay where evidence is weak.
Annex 1 firms must demonstrate compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations, rather than merely assert that controls exist.
The FCA is warning firms that registration applications will take longer, which affects launch plans, transaction timing, and group structuring decisions.
The FCA has sent an information request to around 900 Annex 1 firms to better understand their activities, business models, and risks.
The FCA says it will use this information, together with other intelligence, to identify and disrupt financial crime risks in the sector.
Compliance impact
Non-compliance creates material regulatory and financial crime risk, including exposure to FCA supervisory action, delays in registration, and potential disruption to business operations. For regulated firms that transact with Annex 1 entities, weak due diligence may also create conduct and AML control failures if counterparties are misclassified or unregistered.
On 30 July 2026, Blue Motor Finance Limited (BMFL) was placed into administration. Simon Edel, Richard Barker and Alan Michael Hudson of Ernst & Young LLP were appointed as joint administrators. BMFL (firm reference number 737682) operated as a motor finance lender.The firm had been running at a loss for a number of…
Why this matters
Blue Motor Finance Limited administration announcement is informational regulatory news. Primary sector is Consumer Credit (motor finance lender). Key topics are consumer protection (compensation scheme, customer communications) and licensing (FCA authorization status during administration).
Millions of car finance customers who may be owed compensation can get help making a complaint for free, as the FCA launches a national advertising campaign. Research by the FCA found that 27% of car finance customers lack confidence to make a complaint without using a claims management company (CMC) or law firm…
Why this matters
FCA awareness campaign regarding car finance complaints and compensation claims. Informational content about consumer rights and free complaint tools. Relevant to consumer credit providers and lenders managing motor finance arrangements. No immediate compliance deadline or critical action required.
On 1 June 2026, Prosper Capital LLP (Prosper) went into creditors’ voluntary liquidation. Jeremy Karr and Simon Killick of BTG Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP were appointed as joint liquidators. Prosper, an FCA-authorised firm (firm reference number (FRN): 453007), was an alternative investment fund manager and…
Why this matters
Prosper Capital LLP, an FCA-authorised alternative investment fund manager, has entered creditors' voluntary liquidation following upheld FOS complaints about property investments. This is informational content for consumers regarding firm failure, compensation eligibility through FSCS, and complaint procedures.
The FCA, Advertising Standards Authority, Solicitors Regulation Authority and Information Commissioner's Office are tackling the poor handling of motor finance claims by some claims companies and law firms. As part of the joint taskforce's continued crackdown, in June the FCA had 170 misleading car finance claims…
Why this matters
FCA joint taskforce enforcement action against misleading motor finance claims adverts. Primary focus on consumer protection through removal of deceptive marketing, unauthorized firm alerts, and voluntary requirements. Covers claims management companies and law firms engaging in regulated activities.
On 1 July 2026, Logbook Lending Limited (trading as AFPremier.co.uk, pawnmy.co.uk, LBL Asset Finance, Log Book Loans 247) entered administration. Paul Appleton, Adam Shama and Robert Ferne of BTG Begbies Traynor (London) LLP were appointed as Joint Administrators. Logbook Lending Limited provided lending secured on…
Why this matters
FCA announcement of logbook lending firm entering administration. Focuses on customer protections, ongoing regulatory supervision, and guidance for affected borrowers. Informational content regarding insolvency proceedings and FSCS coverage clarification for consumer credit sector.
Financial products and services shape some of the most important decisions we all make – from saving and borrowing, to protecting ourselves and our families when things go wrong.Consumer needs vary widely, and there’s no such thing as a standard consumer. Our Financial Lives data shows a huge spread of needs…
AI Analysis
The FCA blog “Why getting product design right really matters to consumers” is a supervisory communication reinforcing how firms must design, monitor and distribute products under the Consumer Duty, with a particular focus on product governance, target markets, and ongoing outcomes monitoring. It matters for compliance teams because it sets out FCA expectations beyond the black‑letter rules, highlighting good and poor practices that will inform future supervision, interventions, and potential enforcement.
Key dates
31 July 2023
– Consumer Duty (Principle 12 and PRIN 2A) applies to all new and existing in‑scope products and services open to new business for retail customers
31 July 2024
– Consumer Duty applies to closed products and services (legacy books), extending the expectations on product design, monitoring and fair value to those products
Suggested considerations
Review and update product governance frameworks to ensure they explicitly incorporate Consumer Duty outcomes, including structured consideration of customer needs, characteristics and objectives at every stage of product design and lifecycle.
Define and document granular target markets for each retail product and service, clearly articulating which customer segments the product is designed for, and excluding groups for whom the product could cause foreseeable harm.
Map products and services against vulnerable‑customer characteristics and update design, features, pricing and servicing models to mitigate risks and support good outcomes for vulnerable groups.
Implement or enhance processes to collect comprehensive management information on consumer outcomes (complaints, customer feedback, usage patterns, lapse and cancellation data, arrears and forbearance metrics) for each product.
Establish governance mechanisms to ensure that insights from monitoring and MI lead to timely, documented actions to improve products, pricing, communications or customer journeys where emerging risks or poor outcomes are identified.
What changed
- FCA reinforces that product design must be explicitly based on evidenced consumer needs, characteristics and behaviours, rather than generic assumptions or internal commercial priorities.
Firms are expected to define target markets at a granular level, avoiding broad or generic categories that mask differing needs or risks (especially for vulnerable customers).
Product governance must be embedded into business‑as‑usual decision‑making with clear ownership, challenge and accountability, not treated as a one‑off Consumer Duty implementation project.
Manufacturers and distributors must maintain robust, ongoing monitoring of consumer outcomes using a wide range of management information, including complaints, usage patterns, early cancellations...
There must be a clear, demonstrable link between monitoring and remedial action; collecting data without acting on emerging risks is characterised as weak practice.
Compliance impact
Non‑compliance with these product‑design and governance expectations under Consumer Duty exposes firms to significant supervisory challenge, enforcement risk, potential redress exercises and reputational damage. FCA is signalling that weak product governance and failure to act on outcomes data will be treated as systemic conduct failings rather than isolated issues.
On Monday 6 July 2026, Eldens Finance Limited (Eldens) was placed into administration. Antony Batty and Hugh Jesseman of Antony Batty & Company Ltd were appointed as Joint Administrators. Eldens provided pawnbroking loans, primarily secured against high-value and luxury assets.The Joint Administrators are responsible…
Why this matters
FCA announcement of pawnbroking firm administration. Primary focus is consumer protection (pledged assets, loan agreements, surplus proceeds) and licensing/regulatory oversight during insolvency. Informational content for affected customers and stakeholders, not requiring urgent action from other firms.
The Upper Tribunal has made an order suspending parts of the scheme. We set out what the partial suspension means for firms and consumers. The Upper Tribunal has confirmed it will hear the legal challenges to our motor finance scheme on 14 to 18 December 2026 or 16 to 26 February 2027. The final dates depend on…
AI Analysis
The Upper Tribunal has ordered a **partial suspension** of the FCA’s motor finance consumer redress scheme rules, primarily pausing redress calculation, payment and compensation communications while legal challenges are heard. Compliance teams at motor finance lenders and brokers must now operate under a split regime: preparatory and data‑gathering obligations under PS26/3 remain in force, but scheme‑timetable obligations on paying and notifying compensation are paused until the Tribunal process concludes.
Key dates
18 November 2025
– Consultation on the proposed motor finance redress scheme closes (CP25/27), feeding into the final PS26/3 rules
5 December 2025 Deadline
– Firms must start sending final responses to any motor leasing complaint in line with normal complaint‑handling rules (outside the scheme‑specific pause)
1 May 2026
– FCA confirms its motor finance compensation scheme has been legally challenged, triggering the Upper Tribunal process
31 May 2026
– FCA lifts the general pause on handling certain motor finance complaints, returning many complaints to standard DISP timeframes, alongside the emerging scheme
30 June 2026
– Original end of the implementation period for loans taken out from 1 April 2014 under PS26/3 (now effectively paused for redress calculation/payment/communications)
Suggested considerations
Identify and maintain a complete inventory of motor finance complaints and agreements that fall within the scheme scope (regulated motor finance with relevant commission arrangements between April 2007 and 2024).
Continue to gather, centralise and validate data on commission structures, commission levels, and disclosure practices for all in‑scope agreements, including by issuing targeted information requests to brokers and dealers.
Implement internal workflows to ensure brokers respond to lenders’ information requests within one month, or formally confirm where requested documents or data are not held.
Review and classify complaints to determine which consumers are not owed compensation under the scheme, including cases outside scope and those lacking discretionary, high or tied commission arrangements, and prepare appropriate communications.
Assess complaints for time‑bar issues and apply the scheme’s limitation and out‑of‑time principles consistently, documenting rationale for any reliance on time‑bar to decline redress.
What changed
- Parts of the FCA motor finance consumer redress scheme under PS26/3 are formally suspended by order of the Upper Tribunal, on terms agreed between the FCA and four challengers (Consumer...
During the suspension, firms are not required to calculate redress, pay compensation, or send communications about compensation owed under the scheme according to the original timetable.
All non‑suspended rules remain fully applicable, including duties to identify in‑scope complaints and agreements, gather commission and disclosure data (including from brokers), and maintain records.
Lenders must continue to identify relevant complaints and agreements falling within scheme scope (motor finance agreements between 2007 and 2024 with potentially unfair commission arrangements).
Firms must continue to gather data on commission arrangements and disclosure practices, including obtaining information from brokers and confirming where such information is not held.
Compliance impact
Non‑compliance with the remaining live scheme rules and complaint‑handling requirements exposes firms to supervisory intervention, possible enforcement action and heightened FOS risk, even during the suspension. Failures in data gathering, record‑keeping or timely communications to non‑compensated complainants will also materially increase operational, litigation and reputational risk once the Tribunal clarifies the scheme’s future.
BNPL can help people to manage their cash flow. It can allow them to spread the cost of purchases and smooth their finances. But, as with any borrowing, BNPL also carries risks. Let me clear about this: BNPL has an important role to play. We don’t want to reduce or remove access to credit, but to ensure it is offered…
Why this matters
FCA announcement introducing regulatory framework for Buy Now Pay Later providers. Establishes consumer protections including affordability checks, clearer information requirements, and access to Financial Ombudsman Service.
Speech by Alison Walters, director of consumer finance at the Credit Week: Powering the Future of Finance event. We all recognise that consumer credit plays a vital role in the real economy and in people’s everyday lives, supporting households, enabling opportunity, and helping people manage financial pressures. But…
Why this matters
FCA speech outlining regulatory vision for consumer credit market evolution. Covers Consumer Duty implementation, Buy Now Pay Later regulation, AI/technology adoption, open finance, and data-driven supervision. Informational/strategic guidance rather than urgent enforcement action.
On 9 June 2026, Amplifi Capital (U.K.) Limited (Amplifi) entered administration. Robert Spence and Gareth Slater of Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators. Amplifi is authorised by the FCA. Amplifi trades under the names Reevo Money and My Community Finance. Reevo Money provided personal loans to…
Why this matters
FCA announcement regarding Amplifi Capital's entry into administration. Covers consumer credit lending and credit brokerage operations. Primary focus is consumer protection (loan continuity, payment obligations, complaint handling) and regulatory oversight during administration.
Consumers are being warned to be wary of misleading car finance 'money tips' adverts issued by claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms on social media. As part of the joint regulatory taskforce, the FCA has identified a growing number of adverts that appear to offer independent advice from an individual but…
Why this matters
FCA consumer warning about misleading motor finance claims management company advertising practices. Addresses conduct violations, deceptive marketing, and poor CMC/law firm practices. Informational guidance for consumers and regulatory expectations for firms. No time-sensitive enforcement deadline indicated.
On 28 April 2026, Solvenza Limited (Solvenza) entered administration. Louise Longley and Julian Pitts of BTG Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP (Begbies) were appointed joint administrators. Solvenza (Firm Reference Number: 718517) is regulated by the FCA, authorised to carry out debt purchasing and debt collection…
Why this matters
FCA announcement of Solvenza Limited's administration - a debt purchasing and collection firm. This is informational content regarding firm insolvency, consumer protection measures, and regulatory oversight. No immediate action required for other firms, making urgency null.
On 21 May 2026, Silicon Marketing Limited (Silicon) entered administration. Carrie James and Nick Parsk of Oury Clark were appointed as joint administrators. Silicon (Firm Reference Number: 674008) is regulated by the FCA, authorised to carry out debt purchasing and debt collection activities, which provide debt…
Why this matters
Silicon Marketing Limited, a debt purchasing and collection firm regulated by the FCA, has entered administration. This is informational content notifying consumers about the firm's status, their rights, and ongoing obligations.
The FCA has opened an enforcement investigation into Consultation Claims Limited (CCL) following concerns about its conduct in the period April 2025 to December 2025 in relation to motor finance claims. The FCA is investigating concerns that consumers may have been signed up during the period April 2025 to December…
Why this matters
FCA enforcement investigation into claims management company (CCL) for alleged unauthorized customer sign-ups and forged signatures in motor finance claims. This is informational content announcing an investigation into conduct violations and consumer protection breaches.
Firms that approve financial promotions should be doing more to protect consumers, an FCA review has found. The FCA found that the strongest firms were applying the Consumer Duty from the start of their processes. They were able to make sure that every promotion approved was accurate, clear and reached the right…
Why this matters
FCA review of Section 21 approvers (authorised firms approving promotions for unauthorised firms) across BNPL, crowdfunding, and corporate finance sectors. Findings highlight compliance gaps in financial promotion approval processes and Consumer Duty implementation.
We’re inviting applications from senior practitioners at smaller regulated firms in the general insurance and consumer credit sectors to join the panel. The Smaller Business Practitioner Panel provides independent advice and challenge from the perspective of smaller firms, helping to shape our work at a time of…
Why this matters
FCA recruitment announcement for Smaller Business Practitioner Panel targeting senior practitioners in general insurance and consumer credit sectors. This is informational content about panel membership applications with June 2026 deadline, relevant to governance and regulatory engagement rather than substantive...
When consumers are wronged, many rightly seek fair compensation. Some complain directly, without paying a penny using free Ombudsman services. Others turn to claims management companies (CMCs) or law firms.They can provide a valuable service and support access to justice.However, we’ve seen firsthand from the way some…
Why this matters
FCA announces comprehensive market study of claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms handling financial services and housing disrepair claims. Addresses poor conduct including misleading advertising, unfair fees, and lack of consumer consent.
The Treasury has published its policy statement today on reform of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 (CCA). Reform of the CCA is an important step towards a more flexible regime that supports effective competition and innovation, while maintaining appropriate consumer protection both now and in the future. The proposals…
AI Analysis
HM Treasury has issued a policy statement on reform of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 (CCA), signalling a strategic shift from prescriptive, statute-based requirements towards an FCA rulebook-led regime for consumer credit. The FCA’s response confirms it will consult on moving key CCA elements into FCA rules and guidance, anchored in the Consumer Duty, which will materially reshape documentation, processes and conduct standards across the consumer credit lifecycle.
Key dates
TBD
– HM Treasury’s policy statement has been published, but no specific implementation dates for CCA reform or FCA rule changes are given in the FCA response
TBD
– FCA consultation(s) on key elements of the consumer credit framework are announced as forthcoming; exact dates are not yet specified
TBD
– Future milestones such as FCA Policy Statements, Handbook changes and statutory amendments will follow, but no indicative timetable is provided in the FCA response
Suggested considerations
Establish an internal CCA reform working group (legal, compliance, product, operations) to track HM Treasury and FCA publications on Consumer Credit Act reform and prepare coordinated responses.
Map all existing product lines and customer journeys against current CCA and CONC requirements to identify areas most likely to be affected if obligations move from legislation into FCA rules (e.g. pre‑contract disclosure, notices of sums in arrears, default notices, early settlement calculations).
Review your Consumer Duty implementation for consumer credit products (especially outcomes testing, fair value assessments and customer support processes) to ensure it can absorb additional or re‑framed requirements that may migrate from the CCA into the FCA Handbook.
Compile an inventory of CCA‑dependent documentation (agreements, pre‑contract information, statutory notices, arrears and default letters, early settlement communications) and assess the effort required to update them if the form or content requirements are recast in FCA rules.
Enhance regulatory horizon‑scanning processes to include systematic monitoring of HM Treasury CCA reform material and FCA consultations, ensuring early awareness of consultation questions and proposed Handbook text.
What changed
- The UK Government has confirmed a programme to reform the Consumer Credit Act 1974, moving away from detailed prescriptive legislative requirements towards a more flexible framework based on FCA...
The FCA has stated its intention to consult on “key elements” of the consumer credit framework that are currently in primary or secondary legislation, where it has the power to do so, covering the...
The Consumer Duty (Principle 12, PRIN 2A) is explicitly confirmed as the overarching framework for the future consumer credit regime, meaning consumer credit firms will be expected to demonstrate...
The FCA has signalled that existing consumer rights and protections under the CCA (including cancellation and withdrawal rights, termination, and early settlement rights) will be reviewed and...
Any new FCA rules arising from CCA reform will be supported by a formal cost–benefit analysis and shaped through stakeholder engagement, implying a structured consultation process (likely one or more...
Compliance impact
Non‑compliance with the eventual FCA rules replacing or supplementing CCA provisions will expose firms to supervisory intervention, enforcement action, consumer redress and potentially large remediation exercises under the Consumer Duty. Given the centrality of consumer credit to many business models and the likely breadth of changes, firms that do not prepare early may face significant operational, conduct and litigation risk.
Our objective has been, and remains, to ensure consumers receive fair compensation as quickly as possible and to maintain a healthy motor finance market. An industry-wide scheme is the fastest, simplest route for consumers and the most efficient way for firms to put things right and give certainty to their investors…
The FCA is reviewing whether Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) help consumers understand borrowing costs andis seeking views on whetherit should changehow these are communicated in credit advertising. APRsindicatethe yearly cost of borrowing, including interest and fees. A representative APR means at least half of…
Adverts which used edited, unauthorised clips of Martin Lewis to make misleading claims about average motor finance compensation and used the FCA logo without permission, have been banned by the FCA. Conclusive Financial Ltd (Conclusive), a claims management company (CMC), which also trades as PCP Refunds, was…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA bans misleading adverts from a claims management company, which is relevant for consumer credit firms and all firms more broadly in terms of conduct and authorization requirements.
How we're investing in data and analytics in consumer financeOur goal is regulation that is evidence-based, targeted, and achieves good outcomes for consumers. That’s why we’ve been using richer datasets and sharper data science to drive better outcomes in the consumer finance market, widen financial inclusion, and…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA focuses on using data and analytics to better identify and address consumer credit risks, particularly for vulnerable consumers. It discusses the FCA's use of credit file data and novel statistical methods to track consumer credit journeys and spot emerging distress.
We are going ahead with a scheme to compensate motor finance customers who were treated unfairly. Courts have found that firms broke the law by failing to disclose important information to customers. An industry-wide scheme is the quickest and most cost effective way to deliver fair compensation.We had over 1,000…
AI Analysis
The FCA has confirmed an industry-wide redress scheme to compensate motor finance customers for unfair treatment due to inadequate disclosure of commissions and ties between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024, following court rulings on law-breaking practices. This matters as it imposes up to £9.1 billion in costs on lenders, mandates proactive customer identification and payouts, and aims for rapid resolution while providing finality for firms and market stability.
Key dates
6 April 2007
1 November 2024; Scope of agreements eligible for compensation
26 March 2020 Deadline
Cut-off for excluding high commission cases if clearly disclosed (firms must explain and allow FOS challenge)
2026 (this year)
Millions compensated
30 June 2026
End of implementation for 1 April 2014+ loans; lenders then have 3 months to notify complainants of redress
31 August 2026
End of implementation for 6 April 2007-31 March 2014 loans; lenders then have 3 months to notify complainants and 6 months for eligible non-complainants
Suggested considerations
Identify all in-scope agreements (2007-2024 with broker commissions); assess eligibility against tightened criteria (e.g., undisclosed DCA/high commission/tie).
Contact complainants within 3 months post-implementation; eligible non-complainants within 6 months; invite scheme participation (6-month consumer response window).
Calculate redress per formula (commission-based, capped, with interest); pay promptly, allowing set-off against customer debts where applicable.
Gather records now (FCA expectation pre-rules); handle exclusions/exceptions with explanations; prepare for FOS challenges on time-bars.
Brokers: Respond to lender information requests.
What changed
- Tightened eligibility: Excludes minimal commission agreements (£120 or less pre-1 April 2014; £150 or less post), zero APRs, unused DCAs, and contractual ties where lenders prove visible...
Two schemes: Separate for 6 April 2007-31 March 2014 and 1 April 2014-1 November 2024 to mitigate legal challenges on pre-2014 powers.
Compensation adjustments: Reflects higher 2007-2014 losses; capped in ~1/3 cases to avoid over-compensation.
Streamlined operations: Lenders contact only complainants or eligible non-complainants; no recorded delivery required, cutting delivery costs >40%.
Scope expansion: Covers DCAs, high commissions, and contractual ties under Consumer Credit Act 1974 ss.140A-C; includes deceased consumers.
Compliance impact
Urgency: Critical – Firms face immediate preparation needs (e.g., data gathering) ahead of mid-2026 implementation, with £9.1bn costs, mass customer outreach, and legal risks from dual schemes/challenges. Non-compliance risks enforcement, as FCA expects prompt action for market finality; delays could exceed £6bn in alternative complaint/court costs.
Millions of motor finance customers will receive compensation this year under an FCA scheme for those treated unfairly by firms who broke the law by failing to disclose important information. Consumers were denied the chance to seek a better deal and, in some instances, paid more for their loan.The FCA has made…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA outlines a compensation scheme for millions of motor finance customers who were treated unfairly by firms that failed to disclose important information.
A new taskforce will tackle poor handling of motor finance claims by some claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms, after the FCA, Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) agreed to join up their efforts. The announcement comes as…
Why this matters
This regulatory update is focused on addressing poor practices in the motor finance claims industry, involving claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms. It involves multiple regulators collaborating to tackle issues such as misleading advertising, meritless claims, and unfair fees.
We will set out our approach on motor finance redress shortly after markets close on Monday 30 March, having consulted on a compensation scheme in October 2025.
AI Analysis
The FCA is scheduling its announcement on a proposed motor finance redress scheme—addressing historical commission disclosure failures in car loans—for shortly after markets close on Monday, 30 March 2026, following a consultation launched in October 2025. This matters because it signals imminent final rules that could impose up to GBP11 billion in costs on lenders, affecting millions of consumers and requiring urgent operational preparations to ensure timely payouts in 2026.
Key dates
October 2025
Consultation on compensation scheme launched
~June 2026 (3 months post
announcement) - End of standard implementation period; lenders notify consumers of redress
~August 2026 (5 months for older agreements) Deadline
Extended implementation deadline
~September 2026 (3 months post
implementation) - Consumers informed of compensation amounts
30 March 2026 (shortly after markets close)
FCA to publish final rules/approach on motor finance redress
Suggested considerations
Review and prepare systems: Firms must gear up for redress calculations, notifications, and payouts within the 3-5 month implementation window; voluntary early processing encouraged.
Monitor complaints: Advise customers to complain directly (avoiding CMCs to prevent 30%+ fee losses); process pre-scheme complaints under forthcoming rules.
Assess provisions: Quantify exposure (e.g., GBP11 billion industry-wide estimate) and update financial reserves, as done by Santander/Lloyds.
Compliance checks: Ensure communication channels meet fraud safeguards; cease non-compliant practices per FCA interventions.
Stakeholder engagement: Track the 30 March announcement (confirmed date forthcoming) and respond to any residual consultation feedback.
What changed
- Introduction of a 3-month implementation period for most firms, extendable to 5 months for older motor finance agreements, to handle the scheme's scale and complexity.
Streamlined consumer journey: Pre-scheme complainants no longer need to opt out; lenders must notify them of owed compensation within 3 months post-implementation, with immediate acceptance options...
Removal of mandatory recorded delivery for customer communications, allowing flexible channels with fraud safeguards.
No final decision yet on proceeding, but likely modifications based on over 1,000 consultation responses, including backlash from lenders.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – With the announcement just 6 days away (as of 24 March 2026), firms have minimal time to finalize preparations amid GBP11 billion cost risks, market disruption warnings, and lender pushback; delays could amplify redress delays, fines, or consumer harm claims.
We are reminding regulated firms they need to undertake proper checks when dealing with unregulated lenders, safe custody providers, money brokers and financial leasing companies – also known as 'Annex 1' firms. There are around 1,200 of these firms registered with us for solely anti-money laundering purposes. Our…
AI Analysis
The FCA statement reminds regulated firms to perform robust due diligence on 'Annex 1' firms—unregulated lenders, safe custody providers, money brokers, and financial leasing companies registered solely for AML purposes—due to their limited oversight and heightened financial crime risks. This matters because Annex 1 firms (approx. 1,200) are not subject to FCA's full rulebook, conduct rules, or protections like the Financial Ombudsman Service, exposing regulated firms to contagion risks if they fail to manage interactions properly. Non-compliance could lead to regulatory scrutiny, enforcement, or reputational damage amid FCA's ongoing AML focus.
Key dates
2024
FCA letter to CEOs of Annex 1 firms raising AML concerns.; - **Late 2025 - FCA follow-up engagement with 300 Annex 1 firms.**
Suggested considerations
Verify Annex 1 registration status directly from the firm and via independent checks (e.g., FCA Register).
Understand the Annex 1 firm's business model, products, and risks, aligning with MLRs and 2025 NRA.
Manage identified risks, such as AML deficiencies or consumer encouragement into limited company structures for unregulated lending.
Document due diligence to demonstrate compliance, integrating into broader financial crime frameworks (e.g., BWRA/CRA per FCA findings).
What changed
No new rules or legislative changes are introduced; this is a supervisory reminder reinforcing existing obligations under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017 (MLRs). It emphasizes enhanced due diligence on Annex 1 firms, referencing the 2025 National Risk Assessment (NRA) for risk management. The FCA highlights proactive engagement, including a 2024 letter to CEOs and follow-up with 300 firms in late 2025, signaling intensified supervision without altering the registration-only regime under the Financial Services and Markets Act.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – This amplifies existing AML due diligence requirements amid FCA's 2025-30 financial crime strategy, with evidence of supervisory action (2024 letter, 2025 follow-ups). Failure risks enforcement, as Annex 1 interactions could facilitate financial crime or consumer harm without FOS protections; firms should audit exposures immediately to align with BWRA/CRA expectations and avoid findings like those in FCA's risk assessment review.
We have restricted Beauforce Corporation Limited from carrying out any regulated activities. This means it cannot provide regulated debt advice or debt management services to consumers. We have also ordered the firm to return money held in its bank accounts to its clients.We’ve taken this action following concerns…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA orders Beauforce Corporation to stop operating and return client money due to concerns about the suitability of the firm's senior management and its conduct. This impacts consumer credit firms and involves issues around consumer protection, authorization, and governance.
We’ve reached a significant milestone in our joint work with the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Government to modernise the redress systemso that consumers get fair outcomes quicker and firms have greater clarity about how issues will be handled.We’re delivering change at speed by acting now within our current…
AI Analysis
The FCA, in collaboration with the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) and the Government, has announced modernization of the UK's financial redress system to accelerate consumer compensation and provide firms with greater regulatory clarity. This initiative represents a fundamental shift in how complaints are registered, assessed, and resolved, with immediate implementation underway within existing FCA powers and broader legislative reforms planned.
Key dates
Before end of 2026
- Consumers expected to begin receiving compensation under motor finance scheme
End of March 2026
- FCA expected to publish final rules and guidance for motor finance redress scheme, confirming scope, calculation methodologies, and timescales
31 May 2026 Deadline
- Complaints pause lifts for DCA-related motor finance complaints; standard 8-week response deadline resumes
Mid
2026 onwards; - Motor finance compensation payments anticipated to commence
Suggested considerations
*Immediate Operational Priorities (Pre-May 2026):
*Governance and Accountability
Appoint senior managers with explicit accountability for complaints handling and redress programmes
Establish board-level oversight structures with regular reporting on complaints volumes, redress calculations, and regulatory compliance
Document decision-making frameworks for complaint eligibility and dismissal grounds
What changed
The redress system modernization introduces several structural and procedural reforms:
Registration Stage for Complaints
A new formal registration stage has been introduced to standardize how complaints enter the system, improving tracking and early identification of systemic issues across firms and markets.
Updated Dismissal Grounds
The FCA has revised the criteria for dismissing complaints, providing clearer standards that should reduce disputes about complaint admissibility and improve consistency in decision-making.
Enhanced Fair and Reasonable Test Guidance
Clearer guidance on how the...
Lenders and brokers in thesecond charge mortgagemarket need toconsiderhow theyadvise customers, assess affordability and charge fees. An FCA review has found that weaknesses in some firms’ practices could put borrowers, particularly those consolidating debt, at increased risk of financial harm.Second charge mortgages…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA focuses on issues in the second charge mortgage market, which is relied upon by consumers with high existing debt levels. The FCA has identified weaknesses in firms' practices around affordability assessments, advice, record-keeping, and fee transparency, which could put vulnerable...
Rajinder Gill and accomplices have been sentenced for their involvement in a sale-and-rent-back scheme. Mr Gill has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for running a sale-and-rent-back scheme without being authorised and illegally providing credit agreements and mortgages. As accomplices in the scheme…
Why this matters
This regulatory update covers an illegal sale-and-rent-back scheme that targeted vulnerable homeowners, which falls under the banking, consumer credit, and mortgage lending sectors. The key topics include consumer protection, authorization requirements, and reporting obligations.
We'd also streamline the scheme, so millions get compensation in 2026. We're considering over 1,000 responses to our proposals for a compensation scheme for motor finance customers who were treated unfairly.If we proceed with a scheme, we are likely to make several changes. If we do go ahead, we expect to publish…
AI Analysis
The FCA is implementing a **streamlined motor finance compensation scheme** to address unfair commission disclosure practices, with final rules expected in late March 2026 and scheme launch in early 2026. This represents a major regulatory intervention affecting approximately 14 million motor finance agreements with estimated total redress costs of £8.2 billion, requiring immediate operational preparation by all lenders and finance providers.
Key dates
Early 2026
– Scheme implementation begins (exact date dependent on final rules publication)
Late March 2026
– FCA to publish final scheme rules (timing to be confirmed in advance, outside market hours)
31 May 2026 Deadline
– Motor finance complaints handling pause lifts; firms must be ready to respond to complaints outside the scheme
11 April 2031 Deadline
– Record retention deadline for all relevant scheme documentation
Three months from scheme launch
– Standard implementation period for lenders to contact prior complainants and provide compensation notifications
Suggested considerations
*Immediate Priorities (Q1 2026):
*Data Integrity Assessment: Conduct comprehensive audit of historic motor finance agreements to identify eligible customers and validate transactional data completeness, particularly for older agreements.
Calculating compensatory interest at BoE base rate + 1%
What changed
The FCA's streamlined approach introduces several material modifications to the original compensation scheme proposal:
Process Streamlining
Automatic opt-in for prior complainants: Customers who complained before scheme launch will no longer be asked to opt out.
Immediate acceptance of offers: Consumers can accept redress offers immediately rather than waiting for final determinations.
Flexible communication channels: Firms are no longer required to use recorded delivery; alternative channels with fraud safeguards are permitted.
Implementation Timeline
Three-month standard implementation period from scheme launch, with up to five months for older agreements to allow adequate data review and calculation accuracy.
Lenders could have access to more comprehensive information to support lending decisions, under new proposals by the FCA. The FCA is consulting on designating certain credit reference agencies (CRAs). If a lender shares credit information with one designated consumer CRA, it would be required to share it with them…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA proposes measures to improve the credit information market, including requiring lenders to share consumer credit information with all designated credit reference agencies.
We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Independent Football Regulator (IFR). The MoU establishes how the 2 organisations will work together and support effective regulation where football and financial services intersect.It also sets out a high-level framework for principles for cooperation…
AI Analysis
The FCA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the newly established Independent Football Regulator (IFR) to define cooperation on regulating intersections between football clubs and financial services, such as ownership suitability, licensing, and financial sustainability. This matters for compliance professionals as it formalizes information sharing and joint oversight, potentially impacting firms involved in football-related financing, investments, or consumer credit products tied to sports. It supports the Football Governance Act 2025 framework, enhancing regulatory alignment where financial misconduct could affect club operations.[https://www.fca.org.uk/news/statements/mou-independent-football-regulator-fca]
Key dates
2025
Football Governance Act 2025 enactment; Establishes IFR statutory powers, including provisional/full club licensing from this date onward
Ongoing
IFR licensing rollout; Clubs transition from provisional to full licenses once threshold conditions (e.g., financial resources, owner suitability) met; no fixed end-date
Suggested considerations
Review and map exposures: Firms should assess football-related client portfolios for IFR overlap (e.g., loans to clubs, owner financing) and prepare for dual FCA-IFR scrutiny.
Enhance information sharing protocols: Update compliance policies to respond promptly to IFR requests for data on regulated activities (e.g., under IFR's clause 65 powers), mirroring FCA's existing MoU frameworks.[https://www.fca.org.uk/news/statements/mou-independent-football-regulator-fca]
Incorporate IFR factors in due diligence: For owner suitability, align with IFR tests (fit/proper custodians, resource adequacy); flag potential divestment risks in advisory services.
Monitor joint enforcement: Participate in escalation procedures if disputes arise, ensuring internal records of regulatory remit discussions.
What changed
- Establishes a high-level framework of principles for cooperation between FCA and IFR, focusing on effective regulation at the football-financial services nexus.
Outlines how the organizations will work together, including information sharing on matters like club owners' financial dealings, licensing compliance, and enforcement where financial services...
Builds on prior MoUs (e.g., FCA-UKGC models) by addressing regulatory overlaps, with IFR gaining powers for investigations, enforcement sanctions, and revenue distribution resolutions under the...
Compliance impact
Urgency: Medium – This MoU does not impose new binding rules or deadlines but signals heightened cross-regulator focus on football finances post-Football Governance Act 2025, risking enforcement overlaps or info requests. It matters for firms with niche exposures (e.g., sports financing) to avoid gaps in owner due diligence or financial promotions, potentially amplifying AML/conduct risks amid IFR's divestment powers.
PRA Policy Statement PS5/26 finalizes rules permitting UK credit unions to invest in Credit Union Service Organisations (CUSOs), expanding from the CP13/25 proposals to foster innovation, collaboration, and growth while managing prudential risks through safeguards like due diligence and investment caps. This matters as it enables credit unions—often smaller mutuals—to access shared services (e.g., HR, IT, compliance) via CUSOs, leveling the playing field against larger competitors and supporting the PRA's safety/soundness and competitiveness objectives.
Key dates
24 October 2025 Deadline
- Consultation response deadline for CP13/25
20 February 2026
- Publication date of PS5/26 (final policy)
~20 August 2026 Deadline
- Implementation deadline for SS2/23 CUSO expectations (six months from PS5/26 publication)
Suggested considerations
Review and update policies: Credit unions must conduct due diligence/risk assessments before any CUSO investment/use; implement conflict of interest policies, especially for non-credit union partnerships.
Ensure structural safeguards: Limit liability to investment amount; maintain legal/operational separation between credit union and CUSO; monitor aggregate investments ≤7.5% of capital.
Governance alignment: Decisions must prioritize member benefits per legislative objects; update internal investment rules to comply with amended PRA Rulebook (Credit Unions Part).
Implementation planning: Within six months, integrate SS2/23 expectations into operations; non-engaging credit unions need no action but should monitor for opportunities.
Reporting/oversight: Prepare for PRA supervision on CUSO risks; consider CBA updates if significantly impacting mutuals.
What changed
- Investment permission and cap increase: Credit unions can now invest in CUSOs using own capital, with the cap raised from 5% to 7.5% of total capital across all CUSOs (clarifications added on...
Expanded CUSO scope: CUSOs can now serve other UK-regulated mutuals (with Part 4A permission) beyond just credit unions; partnerships with non-credit unions permitted as owners, subject to safeguards.
Supervisory expectations in SS2/23: New chapter requires due diligence, risk analysis, limited liability to investment amount, legal/operational separation, conflict of interest policies, and...
Other updates: Chapter 17 of SS2/23 amended due to deletion of SS20/15; six-month implementation window for SS2/23 CUSO expectations.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – Credit unions eyeing CUSOs for growth (e.g., shared services) must act promptly within the six-month window to avoid supervisory breaches, as this expands opportunities but introduces new prudential risks (e.g., ownership misalignment, capital exposure). Non-compliance risks heightened PRA scrutiny, especially post-PS26/25 mutual sector review; benefits justify costs only for opt-in firms, but proactive preparation ensures safety/soundness.
Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) borrowers will benefit from stronger protections from 15 July 2026, following the Government's decision to bring the sector under the FCA's regulation. BNPL will be subject to the Consumer Duty and consumers will benefit from:Clear information: Consumers will get clear, upfront details about…
Why this matters
This regulatory update introduces new protections for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) borrowers, which will impact consumer credit and banking firms offering these services. The new rules cover areas like affordability checks, customer support, and complaints handling, requiring firms to be authorized by the FCA.
The FCA and Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) have today issued a joint warning to claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms involved in motor finance commission claims to make sure consumers don’t have multiple representatives for the same claim and are not charged excessive termination fees. The…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA and SRA is focused on claims management companies and law firms involved in motor finance commission claims. It highlights the regulators' expectations around robust checks, termination fees, and consumer protection.
The FCA and Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) are warning claims management companies and law firms (representatives) involved in motor finance claims to make sure clients don’t have multiple representatives for the same claim and are not charged excessive termination fees We have seen some clients with up to 4…
AI Analysis
The FCA and SRA have issued a joint warning to claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms handling motor finance commission claims, addressing multiple client representations (up to 4 per claim observed) and excessive termination fees, which risk unfair consumer treatment. This matters because regulators are intensifying scrutiny amid a paused complaints-handling period (ending May 2026) and a forthcoming redress scheme, with enforcement actions already underway against non-compliant firms.
- Snapshot of SRA's 89 open HVCC investigations and 7 firm closures
5 February 2026
- FCA launches consumer advertising campaign warning of scammers (post-dated relative to publication)
End of March 2026
- FCA to publish final rules on proposed Motor Finance Consumer Redress Scheme (CRS)
Suggested considerations
Engaging clients and other representatives to confirm client wishes and establish single representative.
Notifying respondent firms promptly of the sole representative.
Supporting file transfers with client consent and considering no-charge resolutions if onboarding was poor.
Robust onboarding checks (e.g., confirm no prior representation).
Entering new agreements only after prior termination and informed consent.
What changed
This is a non-binding joint message reinforcing existing obligations under FCA's Consumer Duty, Claims Management Conduct of Business Sourcebook, Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA), and SRA standards, rather than introducing new rules. Key emphases include mandatory robust onboarding due diligence to prevent multiple representations, clear upfront disclosure of termination fees, and justification of any fees charged (especially if onboarding was inadequate).
Compliance impact
Urgency: High - Immediate risk of enforcement; FCA/SRA using CRA/DMCA 2024 powers (e.g., info requests from 9 law firms), 5 CMCs paused onboarding, 1 under investigation, SRA closed 7 firms. Matters due to paused complaints (ending soon), impending CRS, consumer harm from fees/delays, and proactive monitoring signaling broader crackdown on HVCC misconduct like excessive fees or poor due diligence.
People who pay monthly for their insurance are saving around £157m a year, with over half the firms the FCA reviewed as part of a market study lowering the cost of premium finance. Interest rates for premium finance have fallen by an average 4.1 percentage points since 2022, saving consumers £8 on a typical motor…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the FCA focuses on the premium finance market for insurance products, particularly the falling costs and improved value for consumers. It is relevant for insurance firms as well as all firms involved in consumer credit and insurance distribution.
What does 'fair value' mean in financial services? It might sound like dry regulator speak, but it’s really asking a simple question – are customers paying a reasonable price for a product, compared to the benefits they get in return?This is not us setting a particular price or level of profit which firms can make…
AI Analysis
This FCA blog post clarifies the 'fair value' concept under Consumer Duty, emphasizing that firms must evidence a reasonable price-to-benefits relationship without the FCA dictating prices or profits. It matters because it signals ongoing FCA scrutiny and enforcement in sectors like cash savings, investment platforms, and premium finance, with demonstrated consumer savings of £167m annually from interventions. Compliance professionals must prioritize robust fair value assessments to avoid challenges, remedial actions, or enforcement.
Suggested considerations
Conduct and evidence fair value assessments: Use frameworks considering product nature/benefits, limitations, total lifetime costs (fees/charges), relative to benefits; benchmark internally/externally; segment by consumer groups including vulnerables.
Review and act on failures: If no fair value, implement mitigations (e.g., price adjustments, process improvements, product withdrawal); evidence processes and implementation.[FCA blog]
Monitor markets/products ongoing: Assess at firm/market level, including intangible benefits (e.g., scam protection, support channels); prepare for FCA challenges/enforcement.
Premium finance specific: All firms review offerings; outliers demonstrate workings or improve (e.g., APR reductions).[FCA blog]
What changed
No new rules are introduced; this reinforces existing Consumer Duty requirements (effective July 2023 for new products, July 2024 for closed books) on fair value as one of four outcomes...
Firms must demonstrate evidence of fair value, assessing price against benefits, costs, and services delivered.
Ongoing reviews required throughout product lifecycle, with actions if fair value fails (e.g., improve, withdraw).
FCA rejects prescriptive interventions like 0% APR in premium finance to avoid market harm, favoring firm-led assessments.[FCA blog]
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – FCA is actively intervening (e.g., £157m savings in premium finance, £10m in platforms), with threats of enforcement for poor processes/evidence. Matters due to cultural shift under Consumer Duty; weak assessments risk fines, remediation, or product halts, especially in high-complaint areas like savings/insurance. Firms without frameworks face immediate exposure in supervisory reviews.
AI Live Testing now open for applicationsAt the FCA, we’re providing a structured but flexible space where firms can test AI-driven services in real-world conditions, all with our regulatory support and oversight and help from our technical partner, Advai. Collaboration and communication is at the heart of what we are…
AI Analysis
The FCA's AI Live Testing initiative provides a voluntary, structured program for firms with mature AI proofs-of-concept (POCs) to test AI-driven services in controlled real-world environments under regulatory oversight and support from technical partner Advai. This matters because it enables safe progression from 'POC paralysis' to deployment, while helping the FCA gather insights on translating AI principles into consumer and market protections, informing future regulation. Participation enhances firms' governance, risk management, and evaluation frameworks for responsible AI use in financial services.
Key dates
October 2025
- First cohort began testing (historical reference)
19 January 2026
- Second application window opens
2 March 2026 Deadline
- Application deadline for second cohort
April 2026
- Testing starts for second cohort
Mid
March 2026; - Notification of successful applicants
Suggested considerations
Review FCA's Terms of Reference (PDF) for eligibility, focusing on mature POCs and enterprise-level AI systems.
Submit application form via FCA portal by 2 March 2026 if ready for live testing; contact suptech@ fca.org.uk for queries.
Prepare documentation on AI system components (model, context/risks, governance, human oversight, evaluation, controls) for three-phase process.
Assess internal governance, data, risk frameworks, and monitoring for AI readiness; consider non-participation but monitor for future FCA expectations.
Firms not selected should use insights from first cohort (e.g., evaluation frameworks) to strengthen internal AI practices.
What changed
This is not a mandatory regulatory change but a voluntary testing service launched by the FCA; no new enforceable requirements are imposed. Key elements include a holistic focus on the AI system (model + deployment context, risks, governance, human-in-the-loop, evaluation, input/output controls) rather than isolated foundation models. The program features three phases: Discovery, Framework validation, and AI system testing (quantitative/qualitative), emphasizing live monitoring, governance, and risk management. It complements the FCA's Supercharged Sandbox for earlier-stage AI exploration.
Compliance impact
Urgency: Medium - Voluntary program, but signals FCA's proactive stance on AI oversight; non-participation risks lagging in best practices for Consumer Protection / Conduct and Operational Resilience / Outsourcing as regulator builds evidence for potential rules. Matters for competitive edge in AI deployment and demonstrating alignment with principles-based regulation amid 'POC paralysis'. Early movers gain tailored support, intelligence-sharing on risks, and influence on FCA's evolving AI approach.
The FCA's guidance outlines good and poor practices in communicating costs for international money remittance and cross-border payments involving currency conversion, emphasizing transparency under the Consumer Duty to enable informed consumer decisions. It matters because non-compliance risks supervisory action, as the FCA plans future reviews to assess improvements, raising the bar on pricing clarity amid ongoing Duty enforcement.
Key dates
31 July 2023
- Consumer Duty effective date for new and existing products/services
1 May 2025
- FCA publication date of this good/poor practice guidance
Suggested considerations
Review and update pre-transaction communications (e.g., websites) to prominently display all required pricing elements before commitment: GBP amount, exchange rate/markup, recipient amount, fees (fixed/variable/total), and intermediary warnings.
Ensure markups are framed as consumer costs, not obscured (e.g., avoid "zero cost" claims despite markups).
Monitor communication effectiveness regularly under Consumer Duty to confirm good outcomes, enabling cost comparisons and informed choices.
Apply principles to all channels; proactively disclose fee variability and third-party impacts.
What changed
This is not new rulemaking but illustrative guidance applying existing Consumer Duty rules from FG 22/5 and PRIN 2A.5.3R, which mandate communications that are clear, fair, not misleading, meet retail customers' information needs, are understandable, and support effective decisions. Key emphases include pre-transaction disclosure of: amount remitted (GBP), applied exchange rate (explaining markups as consumer costs), recipient amount (local currency), variable/fixed fees, total fees, and intermediary/recipient bank fees where applicable.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – Consumer Duty is live since 2023, but this 2025 guidance signals intensified FCA scrutiny on payments transparency, with planned follow-up work and engagement to enforce improvements. Firms risk remediation demands or enforcement if disclosures remain inadequate, especially as it targets common weaknesses like hidden fees amid broader Duty portfolio reviews.
FCA PS25/19 finalizes rules to streamline complaints reporting by replacing multiple existing returns with a single consolidated return, enhancing data quality, consistency, and vulnerability identification while reducing burdens. This matters for compliance teams as it mandates system and process updates to improve regulatory oversight and consumer protection, with implementation required within 12 months.
Suggested considerations
Review and update internal complaints recording, categorization, and reporting systems to align with new consolidated return, taxonomy, permission-based sections, and vulnerability data points.
Permission-based reporting: Firms report only sections relevant to their regulated permissions, targeting reporting to specific activities.
Simplified nil returns: Proportionate approach allows upfront selection for firms with no complaints.
Removal of group reporting: Shifts to individual legal entity-level reporting for greater transparency and oversight.
Updated complaints taxonomy: Revised categories reflect modern products/services, reducing use of 'Other' and improving categorization.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – With publication on 3 Dec 2025 and a 12-month implementation window (to ~Dec 2026), firms must prioritize system changes now, as the first period starts 1 Jan 2027; non-compliance risks enforcement, especially on vulnerability reporting and transparency, amid FCA's focus on consumer protection data quality.
The FCA has secured a confiscation order of £265,523.96 against Andrew Currie. Mr Currie was convicted in 2023 and sentenced to 2 years 6 months imprisonment for defrauding investors through the collapsed peer-to-peer lending platform Collateral (UK) Ltd.He diverted funds from Collateral investors and used them for…
The FCA has opened an enforcement investigation into The Claims Protection Agency Limited (TCPA) following concerns about its advertising and sales tactics in relation to potential motor finance claims. The FCA is investigating what customers were told about the amount of redress they might obtain, whether they were…
Why this matters
The FCA has opened an enforcement investigation into a claims management company regarding potential misconduct in its advertising and sales tactics related to motor finance claims. This is a high priority issue as it involves consumer protection concerns and potential breaches of regulatory requirements.
A growing number of investment schemes are being promoted unlawfully, are high risk and may even be scams. We've identified a growing number of investment schemes in holiday lodges and holiday homes being promoted to UK consumers by companies that are not FCA authorised.They may be unregulated collective investment…
AI Analysis
The FCA has issued a consumer warning about unregulated investment schemes in holiday lodges and holiday homes, which are often promoted unlawfully by unauthorised firms, posing high risks or outright scams. These schemes typically involve collective investments without FCA authorisation, breaching UK financial promotion and collective investment scheme (CIS) rules. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals heightened FCA scrutiny on unauthorised promotions, potential enforcement actions, and the need for firms to review marketing materials and client referrals to avoid facilitation risks.
Suggested considerations
Immediate verification: Check client-facing promotions, websites, and advisor scripts for any reference to holiday lodge/park schemes; ensure no endorsement of unauthorised products.
Client communication review: Audit advice processes to flag and reject high-risk, unregulated collective schemes; document refusals.
Training and monitoring: Update firm-wide training on CIS definitions (per COLL sourcebook) and unauthorised promotion risks; enhance surveillance of emails, social media, and third-party referrals.
Internal reporting: Escalate any suspected unauthorised promotions to the FCA via Connect or the unauthorised firms reporting form (https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/report-scam-unauthorised-firm).
Due diligence: For authorised firms, implement pre-approval checks under the financial promotions regime (PERG 8 guidance) to confirm partner schemes are not CIS.
What changed
This is not a formal rulemaking or policy change but a consumer alert and enforcement signal under existing regulations. Key reminders include:
Unauthorised firms cannot lawfully promote collective investment schemes (CIS) under section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA).
Holiday park schemes pooling investor funds for lodge purchases and management often qualify as unregulated CIS, making promotions illegal.
No new requirements are introduced, but the FCA emphasises its ongoing monitoring and willingness to intervene, including via the Financial Promotions Regime (effective from 7 October 2023 for all...
Compliance impact
Urgency: High. This alert indicates active FCA enforcement priority on consumer-facing scams in property-linked investments, with risks of fines, bans, or asset freezes for non-compliance (e.g., similar to past actions against mini-bond issuers). Firms face heightened supervisory visits or thematic reviews; inaction could lead to principal liability for facilitating unauthorised activities, especially post-2023 promotions regime. Prioritise within 30 days to align with FCA's "buyer beware" stance shifting to proactive gatekeeping.
With over 20 years’ experience and responsibility for supervising 5,000 firms, I know that when an issue arises, the first question is often: 'What action will you take?'That’s a fair question – enforcement is one of the most visible ways we act. It often grabs headlines with big fines and publicity.But our role as…
AI Analysis
This FCA blog post outlines the regulator's supervisory "toolkit" for addressing consumer harm, emphasizing proactive supervision over enforcement to achieve faster outcomes like redress and market-wide improvements. It matters because it signals FCA's preference for swift, non-enforcement interventions (e.g., skilled person reviews, voluntary requirements), urging firms to respond promptly to supervisory feedback to avoid escalation. Compliance teams should view this as a reminder to prioritize Consumer Duty compliance, as supervision tools are increasingly tied to it for rapid harm prevention.
Suggested considerations
Embed proactive monitoring: Regularly review customer outcomes under Consumer Duty, acting on foreseeable harm (e.g., communication barriers, vulnerable customer support).
Respond swiftly to FCA contact: Engage with supervision teams on identified issues; prepare for tools like skilled person reviews or voluntary restrictions.
Improve practices market-wide: Use FCA guidance (e.g., good/poor examples) to self-assess; ensure clear information, fair value, and accessible support.
Evidence compliance: Map business to Consumer Duty, monitor biases, and demonstrate senior manager oversight via SM&CR.
Facilitate redress: Identify and pay compensation promptly when issues arise, as seen in FCA interventions (£200m vehicle claims; £350k home insurance).
What changed
No new rules or requirements are introduced; this is a supervisory strategy update highlighting FCA's full range of tools beyond enforcement. Key emphases include:
Prioritizing supervision for quick fixes, such as multi-firm reviews, good/poor practice guidance, and skilled person reviews (s.166) under FSMA.
Integration of Consumer Duty (Principle 12) as a core principle for assessing and remedying poor outcomes, e.g., unclear policy renewals or inadequate support.
Examples from insurance (e.g., stolen vehicle claims yielding £200m redress; home emergency cover improvements reducing complaints by 61%).
Compliance impact
Urgency: Medium – This reinforces existing obligations under Consumer Duty and Principles, but underscores risk of supervisory escalation if firms ignore early warnings. It matters because FCA prioritizes speed (supervision over enforcement), enabling quick harm fixes but exposing non-responsive firms to s.166 reviews (costly, used 20+ times in insurance since 2022) or restrictions, impacting reputation and finances. Firms with consumer-facing products must audit processes now to align with "good outcomes" expectations.