FCA Confirms Rule Simplifications for Insurers and Intermediaries – Final Position in PS25/21
The FCA has finalised a series of rule simplifications for insurers and intermediaries, offering new flexibilities across product governance, CPD, EL reporting and commercial client classification. But with greater freedom comes greater emphasis on judgement, documentation and Consumer Duty outcomes. Discover what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how firms can adopt the new model with confidence.
Financial Inclusion Isn’t Optional: What HMT’s Strategy Signals for Insurers
HM Treasury’s new Financial Inclusion Strategy sets clear expectations for insurers to improve access, affordability, and support for vulnerable customers. This blog outlines what the sector should prioritise as financial inclusion becomes a growing regulatory and political focus.
Unlocking Swiss Market Access: What the Berne Financial Services Agreement Means for UK Insurers and Intermediaries
The upcoming UK–Switzerland Berne Financial Services Agreement (BFSA) opens new doors for UK insurers and brokers, enabling cross-border access to the Swiss market without a local licence. But with opportunity comes obligation. Here’s what firms need to know and how to prepare before the 2026 implementation.
Building Cyber Resilience: Lessons from the Bank of England, PRA and FCA’s Latest Guidance
The Bank of England, PRA and FCA have outlined what “good” looks like in cyber response and recovery. Their latest paper highlights how leading firms are preparing for severe cyber incidents and what others can do to strengthen resilience.
Redress and Reflection: What the FCA’s Motor Finance Scheme Means for Insurers
The FCA’s proposed Motor Finance Consumer Redress Scheme (CP25/27) could see up to £8.2 billion repaid to customers, but its implications go far beyond motor finance. For insurance firms, it’s a sharp reminder that transparency, fair value, and governance under Consumer Duty must be watertight.
Raising the Bar for FCA Applications: Why “Good Enough” Isn’t Enough
The FCA is clear: only complete, well-evidenced applications will pass its strengthened gateway. Its latest review highlights good and poor practice across firm authorisations, SMF approvals, and controller applications, giving firms a clear benchmark. Poor submissions risk rejection, scrutiny, and leadership accountability.
This article breaks down the FCA’s findings, common pitfalls, and practical steps to prepare regulator-ready submissions.
Enhanced Oversight of Appointed Representatives: FCA Scrutiny
The FCA has made oversight of Appointed Representatives a strategic priority — and firms are under the microscope. We unpack the regulator’s latest multi-firm review, the risks for principal firms, and the steps you should take now to stay ahead of scrutiny.
Silent Signals: Why Your Whistleblowing System Isn’t Your Best Detection Tool
Early warning signs of cultural risk rarely appear where firms expect them. This piece explores how organisations can move beyond reactive whistleblowing systems and build proactive, multi-channel approaches that capture subtle signals before they escalate.
Post-Mansion House Reforms: A New Era of Growth-Focused Regulation
The FCA, PRA, and HM Treasury are rewriting the rules of engagement for financial firms. This blog unpacks the headline reforms and how firms can prepare for what’s coming.
Tackling Non-Financial Misconduct – CP25/18
The FCA’s new consultation paper addresses bullying, harassment, and discrimination within regulated firms, making non-financial misconduct a key regulatory concern. This blog explores how firms must update policies and culture to meet these evolving requirements.