Consumer Credit

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

Topics:

All Firms

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇬 MAS News

August 4th 2026

Written reply to Parliamentary Question on minors who incurred excessive or unauthorised spending through online platforms

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Payments & E-Money

🇦🇺 ASIC News

August 3rd 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintechPayment Provider

Investment Management Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA News

July 27th 2026

FCA secures majority of victims’ money back from convicted fraudster

Victims of convicted fraudster John Burford are set to recover the majority of the money they invested after the FCA obtained a confiscation order against him. In September 2025 Mr Burford, 86, was sentenced to 2 years in prison for defrauding over 100 investors out of £1m.He offered trade alerts and investment opportunities in managed 'funds', despite lacking FCA authorisation. The FCA found he repeatedly misled investors about fund performance, concealed losses and used their money for pers...

Sectors:

Topics:

AML / Financial Crime Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerWealth Manager

🇬🇧 FCA News

July 27th 2026

You don't need to pay to claim: FCA launches nationwide car finance campaign

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, despite free tools from the FCA being available.Sheree Howard, executive director at the FCA, said: 'Many people who may be owed compensation aren’t sure where to start or don’t real...

Sectors:

Topics:

BankAll Firms

Consumer Protection / Conduct AML / Financial Crime

🇦🇺 ASIC News

July 22nd 2026

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, resilience and capability. That’s why it’s so important for firms to design their products effectively.When firms have consumers’ needs firmly in mind, they can support good outcomes – h...

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.

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.

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.

Key Dates

Payment ProviderBank

Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇬🇧 FCA Policy high

July 2nd 2026

Motor finance scheme partially suspended

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 whether any of those involved in the case apply for further expert opinion or disclosure of information, and whether any such application is successful.The Tribunal has also made an or...

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Senior Managers / Governance

BankBroker DealerFintech

🇮🇪 CBI Enforcement high

June 26th 2026

Loan Empower Solutions- Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Warning: Unauthorised Retail Credit Firm Unauthorised Firm Name Loan Empower Solution Website https://www.lesolution.eu Purported address The Merrion Buildings, 18–20 Merrion Street, Dublin 2, D02 XH98, Ireland Email address used contact@lesolution.eu Phone number used +49 30 1234 5678 Authorisation in Ireland Loan Empower Solution is not authorised as a retail credit firm in Ireland. Additional information Loan Empower Solution appears to be engaged in ‘advanced fee fraud’, where a payment i...

AI Analysis

The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has issued a formal warning under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 against **Loan Empower Solution**, an unauthorised firm purporting to offer retail credit from a Dublin address while apparently engaging in **advance fee fraud**. This reinforces supervisory expectations that authorised firms operating in or into Ireland must have robust controls around unauthorised-firm risk, fraud referrals, and customer communications, particularly where clone or bogus “retail credit” offerings are involved.

What Changed

- The CBI has added Loan Empower Solution (website: lesolution.eu) to its public list of unauthorised firms and explicitly categorised it as an unauthorised retail credit firm operating without the...
The CBI has publicly stated that Loan Empower Solution appears to be operating an advance fee fraud model, where upfront payments are requested for credit services that are never provided.
The CBI has confirmed that the firm is using a purported Irish business address (The Merrion Buildings, 18–20 Merrion Street, Dublin 2, D02 XH98), a non-Irish telephone number, and a specified...
The firm’s name has been published under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, reaffirming the CBI’s use of its statutory power to publicly identify entities...
The CBI has directed the public to its unauthorised firms search and financial scams information pages, implicitly reinforcing expectations that firms promote use of these tools in their consumer...

Suggested Considerations

Review and update internal unauthorised-firm and scam monitoring procedures to ensure Loan Empower Solution and its identifiers (name, website, address, email, telephone number) are captured in watchlists, fraud rules, and staff guidance.
Screen recent and ongoing customer transactions and communications for any references to Loan Empower Solution or similar lending scams requesting upfront “loan fees”, and escalate any matches to fraud and compliance teams.
Update customer-facing communications and website scam warnings to highlight the risk of advance fee fraud in retail credit, referencing the need to check the CBI registers and unauthorised-firms list before engaging with lenders.
Ensure call centre, branch, and digital support staff are trained to identify and respond to customers approached by unauthorised lenders, including how to advise customers to verify authorisation status on the CBI website and to report suspected scams.
Incorporate checks against the CBI unauthorised firms search into onboarding, due diligence, and third-party risk management processes for any lending-related partnerships, introducers, or lead generators.

Key Dates

🇳🇱 AFM News

June 18th 2026

Herziene richtlijn consumentenkrediet: vergunning aanvragen kan nu al

Per 20 november 2026 treedt de herziene richtlijn consumentenkrediet (CCDII) in werking. Aanbieders van consumptief krediet krijgen te maken met nieuwe en aangepaste verplichtingen. Daarnaast gaan voorheen uitgezonderde kredietvormen, zoals achteraf betalen ('buy now, pay later’), óók vallen onder de Wft. Check of uw onderneming vergunning- of registratieplichtig wordt en vraag op tijd uw vergunning aan. De AFM neemt nu al aanvragen in behandeling, vooruitlopend op de definitieve implementatie.

Sectors:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

Topics:

BankFintechPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News

June 17th 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Bank

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Speech

May 22nd 2026

A Modern Code for a Modernising Movement - Speech by Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid at ILCU

Good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today. It is great to see the energy and commitment to the credit union movement evident here today and reflected in your agenda for today’s conference. 1 Today’s event is especially timely, coming not long since Minister Troy’s announcement in April of the Credit Union Strategy Project, which provides an opportunity to future proof the credit union sector to overcome challenges and meet opportunities. The Central Bank welcomes ...

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Technology & Cyber

Bank

🇬🇧 FCA News

May 19th 2026

Is the claims management market working?

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 claims firms have handled car finance complaints that, all too often, they make a difficult situation worse.Poor practices include unwanted texts or emails sent to people who ne...

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

All Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA Policy medium

May 18th 2026

Our response to the Treasury’s policy statement on Consumer Credit Act reform

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 set out a framework that places greater emphasis on FCA rules and guidance rather than prescriptive requirements set out in legislation.We intend to consult on the key elements of ...

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.

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...

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.

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

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechPayment Provider

🇦🇺 ASIC News

May 18th 2026

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

FintechAll Firms

Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇦 SAMA News low

April 16th 2026

SAMA Licenses “Modern Integrated Solutions Financing” Company to Engage in BNPL Activity”

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing

FintechPayment Provider

🇬🇧 FCA News high

April 14th 2026

FCA bans CMC's misleading adverts

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 required to remove its advertising and update or take down its website until it complied with the FCA's rules. Conclusive has since removed the banned adverts.The FCA was also concerned...

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

All Firms

Consumer Credit Banking & Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Enforcement medium

April 14th 2026

Finance Advice Help- Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Warning: Unauthorised Retail Credit Firm Unauthorised Firm Name Finance Advice Help Website Financeadvicehelp.com Email address used contact@financeadvicehelp.com Authorisation in Ireland Finance Advice Help is not authorised to provide retail credit services in Ireland. Notes: Any person wishing to contact the Central Bank with information regarding such firms / persons may telephone (01) 224 5800 or report an unauthorised firm directly to the Central Bank . For more information on how to pr...

AI Analysis

The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has issued a warning notice under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, identifying "Finance Advice Help" (website: financeadvicehelp.com; email: contact@financeadvicehelp.com) as an unauthorised firm providing retail credit services in Ireland. This matters for compliance professionals as it underscores CBI's proactive enforcement against unauthorised entities, heightening risks of consumer scams and potential liability for authorised firms if clients inadvertently engage with clones or similar frauds.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]

What Changed

This is not a regulatory change but an enforcement action via a public warning notice. It reinforces existing requirements under the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (section 53), which empowers CBI to publish names of unauthorised firms offering regulated services like retail credit. No new rules are introduced; it signals ongoing vigilance against unauthorised retail credit providers.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]

Suggested Considerations

Verify firm status: Use CBI's unauthorised firms search tool before engaging with any retail credit provider (https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/how-we-regulate/authorisation/unauthorised-firms/search-unauthorised-firms).
Report suspicions: Contact CBI at (01) 224 5800 or via direct reporting portal for any dealings with Finance Advice Help or similar entities.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Educate clients/staff: Disseminate scam protection guidance from www.centralbank.ie/financialscams; implement "SAFE test" for verification.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Monitor clones: Screen for impersonation risks, as seen in related warnings (e.g., Shamrock Lend clone).

Key Dates

14 April 2026

Publication date of warning notice; Immediate public alert on unauthorised status of Finance Advice Help.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium – This is a routine CBI warning (one of many in 2025-2026), not targeting authorised firms directly, but it elevates consumer protection and conduct risks. Firms must act promptly to update internal alerts and client advisories to mitigate reputational harm, regulatory scrutiny, or indirect liability from scam exposures; failure could trigger CBI inquiries under conduct rules.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original CBI source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct AML / Financial Crime

BankFintechAll Firms

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

April 10th 2026

Shamrock Lend (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇬🇧 FCA Warning medium

April 10th 2026

Spotting risk earlier by tracking consumer credit journeys

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 support economic growth.This blog post explains one way we've been doing that, in a proof-of-concept undertaken by the team of Isabela Barra, Daniel Bogiatzis-Gibbons, Lawrence Cha...

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Technology & Cyber

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇸🇬 MAS News medium

April 8th 2026

Written reply to Parliamentary Question on Household Liabilities and Household Assets

Sectors:

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇬 MAS News medium

April 8th 2026

Oral reply to Parliamentary Questions on safeguards for GIRO transactions

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintechPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇬 MAS News medium

April 7th 2026

Written reply to Parliamentary Question on timeline for making cash acceptance mandatory

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechPayment Provider

Consumer Credit Insurance & Pensions Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Enforcement medium

April 1st 2026

Indefinite Prohibition issued to Nicholas (Nick) Buckley in respect of all controlled functions, effective from 25 February 2026

The Prohibition Notice (PDF) issued after Mr Buckley signed a Statement of Undisputed Facts, in which he accepted that between 1 February 2021 and 12 December 2023, while he was employed at two different retail intermediaries, he issued invoices to clients directing payment to his personal bank account in place of his employers’ bank details. Mr Buckley also accepted that he misrepresented his financial qualifications to clients during the course of his employment. The Prohibition Notice issu...

AI Analysis

The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has issued an indefinite prohibition to Nicholas (Nick) Buckley from all controlled functions, effective 25 February 2026, following his admission of diverting client payments to his personal account and misrepresenting financial qualifications while at two retail intermediaries from 1 February 2021 to 12 December 2023. This enforcement action underscores the CBI's commitment to the Fitness and Probity Regime, emphasizing integrity in customer-facing roles to maintain public trust. Compliance professionals should note it as a precedent for severe sanctions on dishonesty, potentially influencing vetting and monitoring practices.

What Changed

This is not a new regulation but an enforcement outcome under the existing Fitness and Probity Regime, established by the Central Bank Reform Act 2010, which mandates high standards of competence, integrity, and honesty for individuals in controlled functions. No regulatory changes are introduced; instead, it reinforces enforcement mechanisms, including investigations and prohibitions for breaches, particularly in customer-facing roles where honesty is paramount.

Suggested Considerations

Firms employing similar roles: Immediately review invoicing processes to ensure payments direct only to firm accounts, with segregation of duties and dual approvals for client billing.
Fitness and Probity assessments: Conduct enhanced due diligence on customer-facing staff, verifying qualifications via independent sources and monitoring for personal financial gain conflicts.
Incident reporting: Escalate any suspected integrity breaches (e.g., qualification misrepresentation or fund diversion) to CBI under fitness and probity notification obligations.
Training programs: Update mandatory training on Fitness and Probity Standards (available at https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/fitness-and-probity), focusing on honesty in client interactions.
Prohibition checks: Screen all controlled function holders against CBI's public prohibitions list before approvals or role changes.

Key Dates

1 February 2021

12 December 2023; Period of Buckley's admitted misconduct (diverting payments and misrepresenting qualifications)

25 February 2026

Effective date of the indefinite prohibition on Buckley performing any controlled functions

01 April 2026

Publication date of the CBI press release announcing the Prohibition Notice

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium – This is a specific enforcement precedent rather than a new rule, but it signals heightened CBI scrutiny on integrity breaches in retail intermediation, with indefinite bans as a tool to protect consumers. It matters because customer-facing misconduct erodes trust, prompting firms to strengthen controls proactively to avoid similar investigations, especially given CBI Director of Enforcement's warning on accountability. Non-compliance risks firm-level sanctions, reputational damage, and operational disruptions.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original CBI source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Effective Date: 25 February 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Senior Managers / Governance Authorisation & Licensing

Wealth ManagerBroker DealerAll Firms

Consumer Credit Payments & E-Money

🇦🇺 ASIC News medium

March 31st 2026

Mecca companies pay $594,000 in infringement notices for failing to lodge financial reports on time

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

FintechPayment Provider

Mortgage & Lending Banking & Credit Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA policy_statement critical

March 30th 2026

FCA confirms motor finance redress scheme

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 consultation responses and engaged extensively with consumer groups, professional representatives, firms, manufacturers, investors and industry bodies. While most respondents support...

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.

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.

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.

Key Dates

6 April 2007

1 November 2024; Scope of agreements eligible for compensation

26 March 2020 DEADLINE

Version of 9 March 2026

AI Analysis

The CSSF Technical FAQ on Regulation No 20-08 provides implementation guidance on **loan-to-value (LTV) limits for residential real estate credit in Luxembourg**, establishing borrower-based macroprudential measures designed to limit leverage in the mortgage market. This guidance is critical for lenders operating in Luxembourg as it clarifies how to calculate own funds, determine LTV compliance, and apply temporary portfolio exemptions that have been extended through June 30, 2025.

What Changed

The most recent update (March 9, 2026) to the Technical FAQ reflects the regulatory framework established by CSSF Regulation No 20-08 (as modified by Regulation No 24-10).
First-time buyers: LTV limit of up to 100%
Other buyers: LTV limit of 90%, implemented via portfolio allowance Buy-to-Let Residential Loans:
Standard LTV limit of 80%
Temporary exemption (until June 30, 2025): Lenders may apply LTV ratios up to 95% for up to 10% of annual production Other Residential Real Estate Loans:

Suggested Considerations

*For all lenders:
*Verify LTV compliance calculations for all new residential mortgage originations using the framework specified in the FAQ, ensuring own funds are calculated as actual equity contributions from borrowers
*Implement dual LTV tracking for borrowers financing new property through sale of existing property, ensuring compliance with both interim and final LTV ratios
*Document own funds sources carefully, particularly when cash collateral or sale proceeds are used, as these are only permitted for loans with initial LTV below 100%
*Prepare for June 30, 2025 transition by:

Key Dates

December 3, 2020

- CSSF Regulation No 20-08 originally published

January 1, 2021

- Regulation and LTV limits became effective for residential real estate credit on Luxembourg territory

May 21, 2024

- CSSF Regulation No 24-04 introduced temporary adjustments to LTV limits

December 30, 2024

- CSSF Regulation No 24-10 extended temporary adjustments

January 7, 2025

- Most recent Technical FAQ version published (prior to March 9, 2026 update)

Compliance Impact

Urgency: HIGH

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original CSSF source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Enforcement high

March 24th 2026

Remarks by Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid to Central Bank of Ireland’s Consumer Protection Workshop – Consumer Protection at the Heart of Our Mission

Good afternoon and welcome to this Central Bank of Ireland workshop on the Consumer Protection Code. Today I will focus on the outlook for consumers and investors. But first let me pause to talk a little about the broader context in which we find ourselves. We are living through a period marked by extraordinary change, geopolitical instability, rapid technological transformation and shifting economic conditions. Governor Makhlouf summarised this well when he said how 2026 has already seen ext...

AI Analysis

Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid's speech on 24 March 2026 emphasizes consumer protection as central to the Central Bank of Ireland's (CBI) mission amid geopolitical, technological, and economic changes, highlighting the revised **Consumer Protection Code 2025** (CPC 2025) as a key modernization effort. This matters for compliance professionals because the CPC 2025 introduces enhanced, digitally-focused protections effective **24 March 2026**, replacing the 2012 Code after a 12-month implementation period, with firms required to proactively secure customer interests.

What Changed

The CPC 2025 comprises Standards for Business Regulations (governance, resources, risk management, conduct standards) and Consumer Protection Regulations (cross-sectoral and sector-specific rules for...
Core obligation: Firms must "secure customers’ interests," shifting to a proactive, customer-focused mindset.
Cross-sectoral requirements: Knowing the consumer/suitability; conflicts of interest/remuneration; vulnerable consumers (updated definition); digitalisation (customer-focused design); effective...
Specific enhancements: Fraud/scam protections; mortgage switching disclosures; greenwashing prevention via clear sustainability claims; expanded consumer definition (e.g., SMEs up to €5m turnover...
Supporting materials: Guidance on securing interests/vulnerable consumers, mapping tool for legacy codes, redline amendments.

Suggested Considerations

Gap analysis: Map current policies/processes against CPC 2025 using CBI's mapping tool; update for new obligations like digital service design, vulnerability screening, fraud measures.
Policy/system updates: Implement "secure customers’ interests" framework; enhance disclosures (e.g., mortgages, charges, unregulated activities); train staff on conduct standards/vulnerable consumers.
Governance/risk: Strengthen board oversight, risk management for cyber/fraud/digital risks; distinguish regulated/unregulated activities.
Testing/monitoring: Develop records/compliance systems; test advertising/bundling; integrate sustainability claims checks.
Stakeholder engagement: Review CBI guidance/FAQs; prepare for supervision during implementation.

Key Dates

24 March 2025

- CBI publishes revised CPC 2025, Standards for Business Regulations, Consumer Protection Regulations, and guidance

24 March 2026

- CPC 2025 takes effect; existing 2012 Code ceases (12-month implementation period ends)

Until 24 March 2026

- 2012 Code (with addenda) remains in force

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High – With effectiveness today (24 March 2026), firms face immediate non-compliance risk as the 12-month window closes; CBI supervision will intensify on digital/fraud/vulnerability protections amid heightened risks (e.g., cyber, scams). Non-adherence risks enforcement under CBI's powers, reputational damage, and fines, especially as this "gold-plates" EU rules in a volatile environment.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original CBI source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Technology & Cyber

BankInsurancePayment Provider

Consumer Credit Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions

🇬🇧 FCA policy_statement high

March 24th 2026

Timing of the FCA's motor finance announcement

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

BankPayment ProviderAll Firms

Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions Consumer Credit

🇮🇪 CBI Warning medium

March 24th 2026

How the Consumer Protection Code Secures Your Interests

The Central Bank of Ireland today (Tuesday 24 March 2026) marked the coming into force of the modernised Consumer Protection Code, giving consumers stronger protections when using banks, insurance companies, and other financial services. The modernised Code has been designed to better protect consumers in today’s world, and in anticipation of how financial services will evolve into the future. It follows extensive public consultation and engagement. Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid said: "The Cen...

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Reporting & Disclosure

BankInsuranceAll Firms

🇬🇧 FCA policy_statement high

March 20th 2026

FCA highlights risks when dealing with unregulated lenders

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 powers are currently limited to looking at how these firms are meeting their anti-money laundering obligations and they are not subject to our wider rulebook. This regime is based o...

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.

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.

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).

Key Dates

Consumer Credit Banking & Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇬🇧 FCA Guidance critical

March 16th 2026

Creating a redress system that works better for consumers and firms

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 powers, with a focus on improving how the system works in practice. This includes a new registration stage for complaints, updated dismissal grounds and clearer guidance on the fai...

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.

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...

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

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

Compliance Impact

Urgency: CRITICAL

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance

BankFintechPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Crypto & Digital Assets Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

March 16th 2026

ASIC urges Gen Z to ‘sense-check’ money advice as social media fuels riskier financial decisions

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

BankFintechCrypto Exchange

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Payments & E-Money

🇩🇪 BaFin News high

March 13th 2026

Identity fraud: BaFin warns consumers about the website alijz(.)com, the app alijzspro and offers in WhatsApp groups

The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website alijz(.)com and WhatsApp groups operated under the company name AL Konzept GmbH & Co. KG. In these WhatsApp groups, consumers are encouraged to use an app called alijzspro to invest in financial instruments. BaFin suspects the unknown operators of offering consumers financial services without the required authorisation.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing AML / Financial Crime

BankFintechPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇸🇦 SAMA News medium

March 12th 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

March 9th 2026

ASIC bans former credit and financial services representative Neil Andrew Cato for 5 years

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇩🇪 BaFin News high

March 5th 2026

Identity fraud: BaFin warns consumers about the website unzerfinanzpro(.)de

The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the services offered on the website unzerfinanzpro(.)de. BaFin suspects the unknown operators of the website of conducting banking business without the required authorisation. Specifically, the website advertises loans.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing AML / Financial Crime

BankFintechAll Firms

Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending Banking & Credit

🇬🇧 FCA policy_statement critical

March 4th 2026

Motor finance compensation scheme to include implementation period

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 final rules in late March. The timing of publication will be outside market hours and we'll confirm the date in advance. Final decisions on the scheme have not yet been made. But to ...

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.

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.

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.
*Redress Calculator Development: Build auditable, validated redress calculators capable of:
Repricing loans based on proposed APR reductions
Calculating compensatory interest at BoE base rate + 1%

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

Compliance Impact

Urgency: CRITICAL

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Senior Managers / Governance

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News medium

March 4th 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing AML / Financial Crime

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

March 2nd 2026

SB Leasing Ireland Limited (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

BankFintechAll Firms

Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

February 26th 2026

ASIC disqualifies Victorian property development director Kylie Campbell for 5 years

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Prudential / Capital Requirements Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerWealth ManagerBank

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇬🇧 FCA News medium

February 25th 2026

FCA proposes action to close gaps in borrowers’ credit files

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 all.The changes aim to close gaps in consumers’ credit files and ensure these more accurately reflect people’s financial circumstances.Alison Walters, director of consumer finance a...

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA policy_statement medium

February 24th 2026

Independent Football Regulator and FCA Memorandum of Understanding

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 between the IFR and the FCA.Read the MoU (PDF)

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]

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...

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.

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

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintechPayment Provider

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇬 MAS News low

February 24th 2026

Written reply to Parliamentary Question on Circulation of Five-Cent Coins

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

BankPayment ProviderAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇬🇧 PRA policy_statement high

February 20th 2026

PS5/26 – Credit Union Service Organisations

Policy statement 5/26

AI Analysis

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original PRA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇬 MAS News medium

February 12th 2026

Written reply to Parliamentary Question on Credit Card Fraud Liability and Dispute Resolution

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankPayment ProviderAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇸🇬 MAS News medium

February 12th 2026

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing AML / Financial Crime

BankFintechAll Firms

🇿🇦 FSCA News low

February 7th 2026

FSCA Speech Competition

Sectors:

Topics:

All Firms

🇿🇦 FSCA News low

February 7th 2026

FSCA Money Smart Week

Sectors:

Topics:

All Firms

Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇿🇦 FSCA News

February 7th 2026

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 different representatives for the same claim. They risk being charged termination fees, which could be deemed excessive, should they try to cancel duplicate agreements.

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.

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).

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.

Key Dates

7 October 2025

- FCA letter to CMCs on related expectations

Early 2026

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. But it's a challenge to firms – can they provide evidence that their customers are getting a fair deal? If they can’t, then they need to look again.This applies across financial se...

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.

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]

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]

January 30th 2026

AI Live Testing: How it can support safe and responsible AI deployment

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 doing.The first cohort joined AI Live Testing in October last year. We opened a second application window on 19 January 2026 and are now inviting applications.Moving on from 'PO...

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Technology & Cyber

BankFintechInsurance

🇸🇦 SAMA News medium

January 29th 2026

SAMA Licenses “alhulul almuntilaqa” Company to Provide Consumer Microfinance Solutions

Sectors:

Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

Fintech

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇺🇸 FINRA regulatory_notice low

January 24th 2026

Engagement

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Prudential / Capital Requirements Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerAsset ManagerWealth Manager

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇺🇸 FINRA regulatory_notice low

January 24th 2026

Direct Participation Programs (DPPs)

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerAsset ManagerWealth Manager

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇺🇸 FINRA regulatory_notice low

January 24th 2026

Customer Information Protection

Sectors:

Topics:

AML / Financial Crime Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerAsset ManagerWealth Manager

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇺🇸 FINRA regulatory_notice low

January 24th 2026

Customer Account Transfers

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerAsset ManagerWealth Manager

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇺🇸 FINRA regulatory_notice low

January 24th 2026

Customer Account Statements

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerAsset ManagerWealth Manager

Payments & E-Money Banking & Credit Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA Guidance high

January 24th 2026

Consumer Duty: International payment pricing transparency – good and poor practice

Good and poor practice

AI Analysis

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Payment ProviderBankFintech

Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA Guidance high

January 24th 2026

PS25/19: Improving the complaints reporting process

Consultation papers

AI Analysis

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.

What Changed

- Consolidated complaints return: Replaces five existing returns (DISP 1 Annex 1, Consumer Credit Return (CCR), Funeral Plans (FP), Claims Management Companies (CMCs), and Electronic Money and...
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.

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.
Eliminate group-level aggregation; implement entity-level reporting.
Integrate FCA Vulnerability Guidance into complaints processes for identification and reporting.
Test and prepare for fixed 6-monthly submissions via FCA systems; complete nil return simplifications where applicable.
For Retail Banking, Insurance, Payment Services, and CMCs: Retain and adapt contextualised data capture.

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

BankInsurancePayment Provider

Payments & E-Money Consumer Credit

🇸🇦 SAMA News medium

January 24th 2026

SAMA Licenses “Tabby finance” Company to Engage in BNPL Activity

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

FintechPayment Provider

🇦🇺 ASIC News medium

January 24th 2026

Collection agency company director loses appeal against conviction for obtaining a financial advantage by deception

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

All Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

RAMS penalised $20 million for widespread compliance failings regarding home loans

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Reporting & Disclosure

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News medium

January 24th 2026

ASIC cancels Australian credit licence of GS-APAC Pty Ltd

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

BankFintech

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC successfully defends special leave application to the High Court by Cigno Australia director Mark Swanepoel and BSF Solutions director Brenton Harrison

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

FintechAll Firms

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC drives car finance providers to improve consumer outcomes

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

Topics:

BankFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC disqualifies NSW hospitality director for five years

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Prudential / Capital Requirements Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

Former director of private lending companies permanently banned over fraud conviction

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing Prudential / Capital Requirements

BankFintechAll Firms

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC issues DDO stop order against City Finance Lending Pty Ltd

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

FintechBank

Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC issues DDO stop order against FXCM for TMD deficiencies

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerFintech

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

Business lender and loan introducer together penalised $515,000 over credit law breaches

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

BankFintech

Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC bans Sydney mortgage broker for ten years and cancels her Australian credit licence

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

All Firms

🇦🇺 ASIC News medium

January 24th 2026

ASIC suspends Australian credit licence of Transitional Funding Pty Ltd

Sectors:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

Topics:

All Firms

Capital Markets & Trading Consumer Credit

🇦🇺 ASIC News high

January 24th 2026

ASIC secures nearly $40 million in refunds to investors and drives change after CFD sector falls short

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerFintech

Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking Consumer Credit

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

January 21st 2026

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 schemes, where several investors invest their money. The schemes are being promoted unlawfully, are high risk and may even be scams. We remind consumers that if you invest in an un...

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.

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...

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.

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.

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Wealth ManagerAsset ManagerAll Firms

Banking & Credit Crypto & Digital Assets Consumer Credit

🇩🇪 BaFin News high

December 19th 2025

BaFin warns consumers about series of platforms

The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns customers about online trading platforms that use the slogan “[...] invest your money in the world of cryptocurrencies with [...]”. BaFin suspects the unknown operators of offering consumers cryptoasset services without the required authorisation. The websites have the same text design and layout.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Crypto ExchangeFintech

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

December 17th 2025

Tava Loans - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

BankFintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

December 17th 2025

Ava Credit Finance - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Sectors:

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

BankFintech

Insurance & Pensions Consumer Credit

🇬🇧 FCA Enforcement medium

December 15th 2025

Using our full toolkit to help consumers

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 supervisors is to exercise judgement - selecting the right tool to achieve the best and fastest outcomes for consumers and markets.While enforcement is a vital part of the kit, it’...

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.

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%).

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).

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.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original FCA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Senior Managers / Governance

InsuranceAll Firms

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

December 5th 2025

Sectors:

Authorisation & Licensing Consumer Protection / Conduct

Topics:

FintechAll Firms

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

August 25th 2025

Caventer Finance - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm

Sectors:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Topics:

FintechAll Firms

Banking & Credit Consumer Credit Mortgage & Lending

🇮🇪 CBI Warning high

August 5th 2025

Following a satisfactory review of the data submitted by banks and credit unions, to the Central Credit Register, the initial enquiry phase has now commenced. This means that from today borrowers and lenders can request a copy of credit reports from the Central Credit Register. Data on mortgages, personal loans, credit cards and overdrafts, which is backdated to 30 June 2017, is live on the system and is incorporated into credit reports. From 30 September 2018 it will be compulsory for credit...

Sectors:

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

BankPayment ProviderAll Firms