insights & articles
Why Can’t I Hold Money on a Payment Account?
Author: James Borley, Director of Payment Services A key element of any successful FCA application is ensuring that the permission profile accurately reflects the firm’s proposed activities. Getting the regulatory
Treasury Proposes Major Reform of the AR Regime: FOS Jurisdiction, Principal Gateway and SM&CR Alignment
HM Treasury has launched a Consultation: The Appointed Representatives Regime , setting out significant reforms to the appointed representative (AR) regime, signalling a decisive shift towards enhanced consumer protection and stronger regulatory oversight.
FCA Premium Finance Market Study (MS24/2) – Final Report
In February 2026, the FCA published MS24/2 Premium Finance Market Study: Final Report. The study represents a detailed examination of the UK premium finance market, with particular focus on motor and home insurance.
Intermediated Distribution, Remuneration and Consumer Outcomes: MS24/1 Annex 1 Linked with MS24/1.4 Interim Report
On 29 January 2026, the UK’s FCA published the interim report of its market study into the distribution of pure protection products to retail customers (MS24/1: Market study), alongside related outputs including Annex 1: Intermediated
FCA Launches “Mills Review” to Assess Long-Term Impact of AI on Retail Financial Services
The FCA has formally launched a strategic Review into the long-term impact of AI on retail financial services by 2030 and beyond. Led by FCA Executive Director Sheldon Mills, this Engagement Paper, known as
Payment Services Permission vs Proposition: Getting the Regulatory Perimeter Right
By Joel Bailey, Consultant, Complyport When seeking authorisation or registration from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), one of the most common causes of delay in Payment Institution (PI) or Electronic Money Institution (EMI) applications is a mismatch between
FCA Applications: What Does ‘Complete’ Really Mean?
When speaking with prospective clients, and at various industry fora, there is often reference made to applications to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for authorisation and, importantly, “how long will
The FCA’s “Gateway to Growth”
‘We are Open for Business’ The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has set out a renewed vision for authorisation and regulatory engagement in its recent “Gateway to Growth” event. Senior FCA leaders used the forum to provide a
