On 22 May 2026, Sukate & Bezeboh Ltd (SB Remit) entered administration. Charles Turner and Frank Ofonagoro were appointed as joint administrators. SB Remit is a small payment institution authorised by the FCA to provide payment services.On 13 May 2026, SB Remit agreed to a voluntary undertaking, which restricted the activities it could undertake. These measures included restrictions preventing the firm from accepting new customer funds.On 22 May 2026, Charles Turner and Frank Ofonagoro of Opu...
Fastโgrowing and innovative financial services businesses can now apply for more support to help them grow. The FCAโs Scale-up Unit provides tailored support to firms, helping them navigate regulation so they can scale sustainably. The unit is now open to solo-regulated firms to apply.The unit offers a dedicated point of contact and practical support to help navigate regulatory processes, develop innovative products and understand the impact of policy changes.Jessica Rusu, FCA chief data, inf...
UK financial firms can adopt tokenisation and distributed ledger technology (DLT) with greater confidence, as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Bank of England set out a shared vision and seek industry views on the future of UK wholesale markets. Tokenisation is the process of creating a digital representation of a real-world asset โ such as a share, bond or unit of currency โ on a digital ledger. It has the potential to streamline wholesale markets, making everything from issuing...
A convicted money launderer has been sentenced to an additional 499 daysin prison for failing to fully pay the money owed under a Confiscation Order. In 2021,RichardFaithfull,now36,wassentenced to5 years and 10 monthsin prisonfor laundering ยฃ2.5 million, following a prosecution brought by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).He was part of a trans-national organised crime group which laundered the proceeds of at least 7 overseas investment frauds.Mr Faithfullis required topay back ยฃ529,961,b...
We are launching a review of the claims management market, following concerns that consumers are being failed by some claims management companies (CMCs) and law firms. The review will look at the root causes of poor practices across the market, like aggressive marketing, misleading advertising and unfair exit fees. Other concerns include consumers being signed up without their consent - without clear, upfront explanations of the implications of signing up or ticking a box, for example on soci...
The FCA is reviewing whether Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) help consumers understand borrowing costs andis seeking views on whetherit should changehow these are communicated in credit advertising. APRsindicatethe yearly cost of borrowing, including interest and fees. A representative APR means at least half of consumers receive that rate or better. Current rules require representative APRs in most credit advertising.Research, published today, shows APRs are useful for comparing products, but...
Open finance has vast potential. It promises to transform financial services for millions of people through firms using customersโ data in bigger and better ways. But to make that promise a reality, we need to look at how it works in practice. How does sharing data solve real problems for people and businesses?Thatโs the question we want to answer with our Smart Data Accelerator, which enables firms to showcase open finance solutions in a digital testing environment to help shape policy makin...
Sapia has agreed to make a voluntary payment of ยฃ19,637,950 to WealthTek clients and the FCA has censured the firm. Sapia began working with WealthTek in 2013 and later appointed it as one of its appointed representatives. This resulted in Sapia holding and being responsible for protecting client money resulting from WealthTekโs activities.The FCA found Sapia did not put enough safeguards in place to protect this money.Sapia has admitted that it failed to properly separate key roles within it...
Speaking at UK FinTech Week, Jessica Rusu, chief data, information and intelligence officer at the FCA, has confirmed the second group of firms selected to join AI Live Testing. Eight new firms, including Barclays, Experian, Lloyds Banking Group (Scottish Widows), and UBS, have been chosen by the FCA to live test AI applications to support safe and responsible deployment.The FCA is working with its technical partner Advai, a London-based specialist in automated AI assurance, to provide AI Liv...
The Artificial Intelligence Consortium (AIC) aims to provide a platform for public-private engagement to further dialogue on the capabilities, development, deployment, use, and potential risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in UK financial services.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Operations and Legal Sub-Committees. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England has today published new and updated guidance on how the Bank might implement the UKโs resolution regime in the event of a bank failure.
AI Analysis
The Bank of England (BoE) has published updated operational guides on implementing the UK's resolution regime for failing banks, including new details on transfer resolutions and an alternate bail-in approach using non-transferable contingent beneficial interests, informed by recent failures like Silicon Valley Bank and Credit Suisse. This matters for compliance professionals as it enhances transparency on BoE execution strategies, strengthens cross-border resolvability (e.g., via a US SEC No-Action Letter), and requires firms to align recovery/resolution plans with these operational clarifications to ensure feasibility and credibility under the Resolvability Assessment Framework (RAF).[BoE News Release](https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2026/april/boe-enhances-resolution-readiness-with-updated-operational-guides)
What Changed
- New Operational Guide to Transfer Resolution: Details BoE's execution of transfers to private sector purchasers or temporary bridge banks, including recapitalisation payments and use of resolution...
Updates to Operational Guide to Bail-in Resolution: Introduces an alternate approach where affected creditors receive non-transferable contingent beneficial interests (simplifying bail-in by...
US SEC No-Action Letter: Confirms non-transferable contingent beneficial interests for US investors need no SEC registration, aiding cross-border bail-in operability.[BoE News...
Suggested Considerations
Assess resolvability: Major firms perform and disclose self-assessments under RAF; address identified barriers or face BoE powers to mandate fixes.
Enhance capabilities: Implement MREL, operational continuity in resolution (OCIR), and Single Customer View for deposits; prepare for recapitalisation or non-transferable interests in bail-in.
Cross-border coordination: US-exposed firms leverage SEC No-Action Letter for bail-in planning; engage BoE on international strategies.[BoE News Release](https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2026/april/boe-enhances-resolution-readiness-with-updated-operational-guides)
Monitor thresholds: Notify BoE/PRA if approaching ยฃ25bn assets or account thresholds.
Key Dates
OngoingDEADLINE
- Firms must maintain resolution packs and MREL compliance; bail-in firms have at least **6 years** (plus up to 2-year extension) to meet end-state MREL, and **minimum 18 months** for additional resolvability requirements
Advance notificationDEADLINE
- Modified insolvency firms forecasting ยฃ25bn assets or transactional account thresholds within 3 years must inform BoE/PRA
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High - This is guidance, not new rules, but directly impacts resolution plan credibility and RAF assessments, with potential supervisory/enforcement actions for non-alignment (e.g., MREL shortfalls or unresolved barriers). Firms must act proactively to avoid heightened BoE scrutiny, especially post-SVB/Credit Suisse lessons emphasizing bail-in effectiveness and no public fund reliance.
On 21 November 2025, we imposed restrictions on Bazar Money Transfer Limited (BMTL), preventing it from providing regulated payment services. BMTL is registered with the FCA to provide money remittance services to retail and corporate customers.As BMTL was no longer meeting the conditions for registration as a small payment institution, we acted to impose restrictions to protect consumers, preventing BMTL from carrying out any regulated payment services.Following representations made by BMTL,...
The FCA and Bank of England (Bank) invite expressions of interest from market participants to join a new taskforce. The purpose of this taskforce is to inform the design of our long-term approach to harmonising transaction and post-trade reporting requirements.The taskforce will be comprised of three separate working groups: a main Policy group, supported by a Strategy group and an Architecture group. The working groups will have the following individual objectives: Policy group:Identifying a...
The Money Markets Committee is a forum for market participants and authorities to discuss the UK unsecured deposits and funding market and securities lending and repo markets.
PS11/26 finalizes PRA rules enhancing Pillar 3 disclosures on resolvability resources (MREL), capital distribution constraints (CDCs), and disclosure basis for UK banks and building societies. It matters because it standardizes information to boost market discipline, user comparability, and confidence in orderly resolution, directly impacting financial stability and compliance reporting. No substantive changes from CP16/25 consultation, with minor clarifications only.
What Changed
- Standardized MREL disclosure templates: Replaces free-form disclosures with four new templates aligned to Basel BCBS TLAC formats (adapted for UK), expanding scope to more firms for consistency on...
Qualitative CDC narrative: Added to UK CC1 template for firms subject to CDCs, enabling market assessment of restriction impacts; removes obsolete Systemic Risk Buffer (SRB) disclosure post-O-SII...
Disclosure basis statement: Firms must specify their Pillar 3 regime (e.g., resolution entity, O-SII, large institution), frequency, and details like reference date, currency, LEI, accounting...
Minor amendments: Reflects HMT's revocation of CRR Article 92a; updates to Disclosure (CRR) and Reporting (CRR) Parts of PRA Rulebook, with semi-annual key metrics for certain firms.
No substantive policy changes post-consultation; costs/benefits assessment unchanged.
Suggested Considerations
Update Pillar 3 processes to use new MREL templates (Annex XXVII instructions), UK CC1 with CDC narrative, and basis statement (e.g., reference date, LEI, scope).
For CDC-subject firms: Prepare qualitative narrative on restriction impacts.
Ensure semi-annual disclosure of key metrics (Article 447 points a-g) where required.
Integrate into consolidated reporting for UK parents; test templates/instructions from appendices.
Review for alignment with broader CRR changes (e.g., Article 92a revocation).
Key Dates
17 March 2026
- PS11/26 and accompanying rule instruments (e.g., Disclosure (CRR) Instrument 2026) published
1 January 2027
- Policy effective date; rules apply from this date
H1 2027
- First disclosures under new policy published, covering period ending **31 December 2026** (annual/semi-annual as applicable)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High โ Effective 1 January 2027 requires immediate template/system updates for H1 2027 disclosures (year-end 2026 data), with standardized formats limiting flexibility and raising non-compliance risks to market discipline objectives. Impacts reporting teams, resolution planning, and investor relations; proportional design minimizes burden but demands proactive gap analysis given no transition grace beyond effective date.
Weโve confirmed new rules to make existing incident and third party reporting clearer, more consistent, and easier for firms to follow. These new rules will help us respond quickly to disruption such as a cyber attack or power outage, give firms greater certainty on what to report and when and strengthen firm resilience to better protect consumers and markets.Cyber attacks are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated, and firms are increasingly reliant on third party providers. In 2025, ...
On 23 January 2026, the FCA imposed requirements on Sendsii Ltd which prevent them from carrying out any regulated activity. The FCA has issued a First Supervisory Notice to Sendsii Ltd after HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) suspended the firmโs registration on 9 October 2025. The suspension means that Sendsii Ltd no longer met the conditions required for its FCA authorisation under the Payment Services Regulations 2017.These requirements prevent Sendsii Ltd from carrying out any regulated activ...
Images of the UKโs wildlife are to feature on the next series of banknotes following a public consultation run by the Bank of England.
AI Analysis
The Bank of England has announced that **wildlife imagery will replace historical figures on the next series of banknotes**, following a public consultation in which nature received 60% support. This decision represents a significant shift in banknote design policy and carries implications for currency authentication, public engagement, and operational planning across the payments ecosystem.
What Changed
The Bank of England is implementing the following design changes:
Theme Selection: Wildlife native to Britain will feature on all denominations (ยฃ5, ยฃ10, ยฃ20, ยฃ50) of the next banknote series, replacing historical figures such as William Shakespeare, Winston...
Monarch Continuity: King Charles' portrait will continue to appear on all notes.
Security Integration: Wildlife imagery has been selected partly for its effectiveness in developing banknotes with easily recognizable and distinguishable security features.
Scope Expansion: The design may incorporate additional natural elements including plants and landscapes to complement wildlife imagery.
Suggested Considerations
*Monitor the summer 2026 consultation: Track the announcement of the wildlife expert panel's curated species list and participate in the second consultation if relevant to your operations
*Plan for authentication updates: Currency handlers and retailers should prepare staff training programs for new security features once designs are finalized
*Update systems and procedures: Payment processors and financial institutions should plan for gradual transition protocols as new notes enter circulation
*Engage with BoE communications: Subscribe to Bank of England announcements regarding final design decisions and implementation timelines
*Prepare customer communications: Financial institutions should develop materials explaining the design change and new security features to customers
Key Dates
July 2025
- Initial public consultation on banknote themes closed
Summer 2026
- Second public consultation to gather views on specific wildlife species (announced as forthcoming)
Future (multi
year process); - Design, testing, and printing of next-generation banknotes with anti-counterfeiting technology
Speech by David Geale, executive director, payments and digital finance, and PSR managing director at the MoneyLIVE Summit 2026, London. ConsolidationRule 1 is โOut of clutter, find simplicity.โThe Government announced its intention to consolidate the PSR into the FCA about a year ago. It was a decision we welcomed.Our work has always been complementary, and we made it work.As an economic regulator, the PSR is focused on getting the foundations right โ the payment systems and infrastructure t...
The Bank's Court of Directors acts as a unitary board, setting the organisation's strategy and budget and taking key decisions on resourcing and appointments. Required to meet a minimum seven times per year, it has five executive members from the Bank and up to nine non-executive members.
The Payments Vision Delivery Committee (the Committee) has published the Payments Forward Plan (the Plan). Read the Plan on GOV.UKThe Committee comprises:HM TreasuryBank of EnglandFinancial Conduct AuthorityPayment Systems RegulatorThe Plan sets out upcoming initiatives across retail and wholesale payments, including elements of digital assets. Recent publications on open banking, stablecoins and contactless limits, alongside the initiatives in the Plan, show the high level of activity across...
AI Analysis
The Payments Vision Delivery Committeeโcomprising HM Treasury, Bank of England, FCA, and Payment Systems Regulatorโhas published the **Payments Forward Plan**, a three-year regulatory roadmap for retail, wholesale payments, and digital assets, aligning with the UK's National Payments Vision for a trusted, innovative ecosystem. This matters for compliance teams as it provides sequencing and milestones for multiple initiatives, enabling proactive planning amid high regulatory activity, including PSR consolidation into FCA and infrastructure upgrades. It signals coordinated efforts to boost competition, resilience, and innovation while minimizing sector capacity strain.[FCA publication]
What Changed
No immediate binding regulatory changes are imposed by the Plan itself; it is a forward-looking roadmap outlining planned initiatives rather than new rules. Key elements include:
Modernisation of payments framework: Consolidation of PSR into FCA, with HMT consultation response in Q1 2026; data/operational enhancements to Faster Payments and Bacs by end-2026.
Infrastructure upgrades: Short-term resilience improvements to Faster Payments and Bacs (end-2026); exploration of regulated stablecoins for on-chain settlement (H1 2026).
Safeguarding enhancements: FCA Supplementary Regime effective May 2026, with engagement Jan-Apr 2026.
Standards and open banking: Industry input on standards body (Feb-Mar 2026 assessment); HMT Data (Use and Access) Act SI in Q4 2026.
Suggested Considerations
Review the full Plan on GOV.UK (https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/699f2bc6c497bac082bc76bc/Payments_Forward_Plan_.pdf) and map initiatives to your firm's operations, prioritizing safeguarding, infrastructure, and stablecoins.
Engage proactively: Provide FCA views on standards body (by Feb 2026); participate in Jan-Apr 2026 safeguarding engagement; prepare for VRP rollout (live payments expected Q1 2026).
Stablecoin firms: Submit sandbox applications by 18 Jan 2026.
Monitor and plan: Track Regulatory Initiatives Grid for 2027; assess capacity for sequenced initiatives; ensure compliance readiness for May 2026 safeguarding rules and end-2026 infrastructure changes.
Internal audit: Evaluate current adherence to PSRs/EMRs, especially safeguarding, ahead of consolidation.
Key Dates
Q1 2026
HMT consultation response on PSR consolidation into FCA
Spring 2026
HMT update on Consumer Credit Act reform
18 January 2026DEADLINE
Deadline for stablecoin issuers to apply to FCA regulatory sandbox; (related push for innovation)
May 2026
FCA Supplementary Regime for safeguarding comes into force
H1 2026
Bank/FCA exploration of regulated stablecoins for on-chain settlement
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium. This is a planning document, not enforceable rules, but its milestones trigger near-term actions (e.g., Q1 2026 engagements, May 2026 safeguarding). It matters because it coordinates high-activity areas like PSR-FCA merger and stablecoins, reducing surprises but demanding resource allocation for innovation/resilience amid sector capacity constraints. Firms delaying review risk missing input opportunities or readiness gaps, especially with VRP/stablecoin momentum.
The FCA has chosen 4 companies to test how their stablecoin services work with proposed regulation in a safe environment. The stablecoins cohort is part of our commitment to supporting growth and innovation in UK financial services. 20 applications were received and the FCA has chosen the following firms:Monee Financial TechnologiesReStabiliseRevolutVVTXThe Regulatory Sandbox programme allows firms to trial stablecoin products in real world conditions with appropriate safeguards. It will help...
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 โ 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.
We have signed an Exchange of Letters with the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). IFSCA is the unified regulator for financial institutions operating in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Indiaโs first international financial services centre.This agreement affirms both authoritiesโ commitment to develop our regulatory relationship.Download our letter (PDF)The letters set out the intention to share regulatory knowledge and best practice to support the ...
AI Analysis
The FCA has signed an Exchange of Letters with India's IFSCA, the regulator for GIFT City, to foster regulatory cooperation, knowledge sharing, and stronger links between UK financial markets and GIFT City. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals expanding cross-border ties, potentially easing market access and harmonizing standards for firms operating between the UK and India, amid the FCA's broader global outreach strategy. No binding rules are imposed, but it sets the stage for future alignment in areas like fintech and financial services.
What Changed
There are no direct regulatory changes or new requirements imposed by this Exchange of Letters. It is a non-binding agreement focused on:
Sharing regulatory knowledge and best practices.
Supporting financial services development in both jurisdictions.
Promoting links between GIFT City and UK markets.
The letters affirm commitment to developing the regulatory relationship, with an additional step of posting an FCA Financial Services Attachรฉ to the...
Suggested Considerations
binding nature. Recommended proactive steps for compliance teams:
Review and download the full Exchange of Letters (PDF available via FCA site) to understand shared priorities.
Assess current India/GIFT City exposures and prepare for potential future information-sharing requests or aligned standards.
Monitor FCA news for follow-up developments, such as joint guidance on fintech or market access https://www.fca.org.uk/news.
Engage with FCA international teams if planning cross-border activities in GIFT City.
Key Dates
Later in 2026
- Posting of FCA Financial Services Attachรฉ to British Deputy High Commission in Mumbai to support regulatory relationship development [FCA publication]
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Low - This is a cooperative MoU-style letter exchange without immediate rules, penalties, or obligations, posing minimal disruption risk. It matters strategically for long-term planning, as it could lead to simplified compliance for UK-India activities (e.g., reduced dual-regulation friction) and aligns with FCA's pattern of global pacts that indirectly shape supervisory expectations. Firms with India exposure should note it for horizon scanning, but no urgent resourcing is needed.
We have published a letter to trade associations to provide an update in the development of a Future Entity (FE) for open banking. The letter confirms the appointment of KPMG to provide an independent assessment of proposals to establish a standards-setting body for UK open banking APIs that is capable of becoming the Future Entity. It explains the purpose and scope of the assessment, the respective roles of the FCA, industry, trade associations and the independent assessor, and how firms can...
AI Analysis
The FCA has appointed KPMG to conduct an independent assessment of proposals for establishing a **Future Entity** โ a standards-setting body for UK open banking APIs that will replace Open Banking Limited. This initiative is critical because it establishes the governance framework for open banking ahead of new legislative powers the FCA will receive under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, with a statutory instrument expected by end-2026.
What Changed
The regulatory landscape for UK open banking is undergoing fundamental restructuring:
Transition of regulatory authority: The FCA is becoming the primary regulator for open banking, replacing the Joint Regulatory Oversight Committee (JROC).
Future Entity establishment: A new standards-setting body will become the primary UK standard-setting organization for open banking APIs, responsible for setting and maintaining common standards for...
Independent assessment process: KPMG will evaluate competing proposals from industry participants to determine which organization should lead the Future Entity establishment.
Legislative framework: HM Treasury will introduce legislation granting the FCA new rulemaking powers for open banking under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025.
Suggested Considerations
*For industry participants and trade associations:
*Engage with the assessment process: Participate in the independent assessment by submitting proposals or supporting existing proposals for Future Entity leadership
*Arrange FCA Q&A sessions: Organizations interested in leading Future Entity establishment should contact the FCA directly to schedule one-hour Q&A sessions ahead of the independent consultancy process launch
*Coalesce behind proposals: Industry should decide which proposal option should lead the next phase of work, with the FCA commissioning assessment of either multiple proposals or a single industry-supported proposal
*Prepare for VRP implementation: Ensure systems and processes are ready for live Variable Recurring Payments transactions expected in Q1 2026
Key Dates
Q1 2026
โ Final design of Future Entity expected; live transactions expected through VRP scheme
End of 2026
โ FCA expected to consult on Long-Term Regulatory Framework; statutory instrument for Open Banking expected to be laid by HM Treasury
February 2026
โ Independent assessment process begins; KPMG commences evaluation of proposals
Before March 2026DEADLINE
โ FCA's Open Finance roadmap due for publication
Early April 2026
โ KPMG delivers final assessment report; FCA publishes on its website
From 6 April 2026, Gemini is closing all customer accounts in the UK. Gemini Payments UK, Ltd (GPUK) is authorised by the FCA to issue electronic money (e-money) and provide payment services.Gemini Intergalactic UK, Ltd (GIUK) offers cryptoasset products. These activities are not regulated by the FCA, although we oversee compliance in accordance with UK anti-money laundering regulations. On 5 February 2026, GPUK and GIUK confirmed they plan to exit the UK market. Effective 6 April 2026, Gemin...
In October 2025, 25 financial institutions active in the UK foreign exchange (FX) market participated in the semi-annual turnover survey for the Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC).
Speech by David Geale, executive director, payments and digital finance and Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) managing director, at the Payments Regulation and Innovation Summit 2026. A payments system that works for everyoneJust before Christmas I was in Billericay for the opening of the 200th banking hub.I got to chat to local people and business owners about the difference the hub will make to their everyday lives. It was great.Although if Iโm honest, the biggest talking point was probably t...
AI Live Testing now open for applicationsAt the FCA, weโre 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 2026DEADLINE
- 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.
Weโre working closely with the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), UK law enforcement, and our regulatory partners to tackle the abuse of cryptoassets and associated moneyโlaundering activities. Read the full blog on the OFSIโs website.
On 21 January 2026, Guavapay Limited entered compulsory liquidation. The Official Receiver, an officer of the Insolvency Service, is its liquidator. Guavapay is authorised by the FCA to issue E-money and provide payment services to its customers.On 17 September 2025, Guavapay agreed to a voluntary requirement with the FCA, restricting the activities it can undertake. See details on the Financial Services Register.As liquidator, The Official Receiver is responsible for:Managing customer claims...
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 โ Consumer Duty is live since 2023, but this 2025 guidance signals intensified FCA scrutiny on payments transparency, with planned follow-up work and engagement to enforce improvements. Firms risk remediation demands or enforcement if disclosures remain inadequate, especially as it targets common weaknesses like hidden fees amid broader Duty portfolio reviews.
FCA PS25/19 finalizes rules to streamline complaints reporting by replacing multiple existing returns with a single consolidated return, enhancing data quality, consistency, and vulnerability identification while reducing burdens. This matters for compliance teams as it mandates system and process updates to improve regulatory oversight and consumer protection, with implementation required within 12 months.
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.
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 โ 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.
CP25/15 proposes prudential rules and guidance for UK firms issuing **qualifying stablecoins** and safeguarding **qualifying cryptoassets**, aiming to foster a safe, competitive crypto sector while prioritizing consumer protection and market integrity. This matters for compliance professionals as it introduces tailored prudential sourcebooks (COREPRU and CRYPTOPRU) to mitigate firm failure risks, aligning with the FCA's crypto roadmap and Treasury's statutory plans.
What Changed
- Prudential Sourcebooks: Introduces COREPRU (core requirements across sectors) and CRYPTOPRU (crypto-specific calibrations) for "CRYPTOPRU firms" handling regulated crypto activities, covering own...
Own Funds and Capital Rules: Firms must hold financial resources adequate in amount and quality, including adjustments for valuation uncertainty, stress realizable values, and interim profits in CET1...
Risk Management and Outcomes: Targets prevention of firm failures, disorderly wind-downs, and consumer harm; measures success via reduced failure rates, market confidence, and prudential assessments.
Sector-Specific Rules: Calibrated for stablecoin issuance and cryptoasset safeguarding, with future consultations on broader applications (e.g., trading venues, staking).
Suggested Considerations
Respond to Consultation: Firms, advisers, and stakeholders must submit comments by 31/07/2025 using the online form, email, or post to influence final rules.
Assess Applicability: Crypto firms evaluate if they qualify as CRYPTOPRU firms; conduct gap analyses against proposed COREPRU/CRYPTOPRU rules on own funds, capital adequacy, and stress testing.
Prepare Prudential Frameworks: Develop internal capital adequacy processes reflecting stress events, valuation adjustments, and ongoing prudential assessments; review threshold conditions and business principles.
Engage on Related CPs: Monitor and respond to CP25/14 (stablecoin issuance/custody) and future CPs (e.g., CP2, Q3 2025 Conduct Standards).
Data and Reporting Readiness: Prepare to provide firm/market data for FCA evaluations on adherence and outcomes.
Key Dates
28/05/2025
- Consultation opens and CP first published
31/07/2025
- Consultation closes; submit feedback via online form, email ([emailย protected]), or post
Q3 2025
- Upcoming Conduct and Firm Standards CP affecting all cryptoasset firms, including QS issuers and custodians
Post
31/07/2025; - FCA considers feedback and publishes final rules (no specific date given)
Future (CP2 per Roadmap)
- Consultation on remaining prudential sourcebook requirements
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High โ As of January 2026, the consultation closed over five months ago, signaling imminent final rules that could reshape prudential requirements for crypto firms; non-compliance risks authorization barriers, enforcement, or market exclusion in a regime prioritizing stability amid global crypto growth. This elevates risks for firm failures and consumer harm, demanding immediate gap assessments to align with proportionate standards supporting innovation.
We have issued a joint statement with the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) giving clarity on open banking pricing models. We and the PSR have issued the following statement (PDF).This confirms we will not, at this stage, prioritise a Competition Act 1998 (CA98) investigation into the centralised โaccess feeโ pricing model being developed by the UK Payments Initiative (UKPI) for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs). cVRPs are an emerging open banking technology that allow consumers to...
AI Analysis
The FCA and PSR have jointly confirmed they will not prioritize a Competition Act 1998 investigation into the UK Payments Initiative's (UKPI) centralized access fee pricing model for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs), with the CMA's concurrent agreement. This regulatory clarity provides temporary certainty for cVRP development ahead of anticipated legislation by end-2026, creating a critical window for firms to develop compliant commercial models in this emerging open banking technology.
What Changed
The regulatory statement establishes the following key positions:
Non-prioritization of CA98 investigation: The FCA, PSR, and CMA have jointly confirmed they will not prioritize competition law enforcement against UKPI's centralized access fee model for Phase...
Scope limitation: The regulatory clarity applies only to Phase 1/Wave 1 of UKPI's cVRP scheme, specifically addressing lower-risk payment use cases including regulated financial services, utilities,...
Temporary framework: This is explicitly a temporary measure pending legislative implementation under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 or other relevant legislation.
Regulatory monitoring obligations: During the interim period, the FCA and PSR will monitor market developments, review pricing methodology changes, and require UKPI to submit finalized governance...
Suggested Considerations
*For UKPI and participating firms:
*Governance documentation: Submit finalized governance documents to FCA/PSR as required during the interim period
*Pricing methodology transparency: Maintain detailed records of access fee pricing methodology and be prepared to demonstrate compliance with the agreed model; notify regulators of any material changes
*Phase 1/Wave 1 compliance: Ensure all cVRP offerings remain within the defined scope of lower-risk use cases during Phase 1/Wave 1
*Market engagement: Participate in FCA industry consultations throughout 2026 regarding progress, service delivery, and identified blockers
Key Dates
Q1 2026
- Expected first live UKPI cVRP payments
End of 2026
- Government anticipated to introduce legislative framework granting FCA new open banking powers
15 January 2026
- FCA and PSR wrote to CMA setting out their non-prioritization position
16 January 2026
- CMA confirmed alignment with FCA/PSR position on CA98 prioritization
20 January 2026
- Joint FCA/PSR statement issued on open banking pricing models
The FCA and PSR have issued a joint statement providing clarity on open banking pricing models, specifically regarding the centralised 'access fee' pricing model for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs). This statement confirms that they will not prioritize a Competition Act 1998 investigation into this model at this stage. The goal is to support the development of cVRPs, giving consumers more control over their payments and lowering processing fees for businesses.
What Changed
The FCA and PSR have clarified their enforcement position on the UKPI's proposal for a commercial model for cVRPs, indicating they will not prioritize a Competition Act 1998 investigation at this stage.
Suggested Considerations
Monitor market developments and updates on the legislative framework for open banking
Review and understand the implications of the centralised 'access fee' pricing model for cVRPs on your business operations
Ensure compliance with existing competition laws and regulations
Key Dates
31 Dec 2026DEADLINE
Expected implementation of the government's legislative framework for open banking
1 Jul 2027DEADLINE
End of the temporary measure if the legislative framework is not implemented
Potential Consequences
Enforcement action, fines, or other regulatory penalties for non-compliance with competition laws and regulations
The FCA, Bank of England and Prudential Regulation Authority have together signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the European Supervisory Authorities to enhance cooperation and oversight of critical third parties (CTPs) that fall under the UKโs CTP regime.The MoU establishes a framework for coordinating and sharing information on the oversight of CTPs under the UK regime and critical third party providers (CTPPs) under the EUโs Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), including du...
AI Analysis
The FCA, Bank of England (BoE), and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) to coordinate oversight of critical third parties (CTPs) under the UK's CTP regime and critical third party providers (CTPPs) under the EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). This matters because it enhances cross-border information sharing and cooperation during incidents like cyber-attacks, reducing regulatory duplication while bolstering financial stability and operational resilience for firms reliant on these providers.
What Changed
- Establishes a framework for timely information sharing, coordination of oversight activities, and joint responses to incidents affecting CTPs/CTPPs, including power outages or cyber-attacks.
Defines principles for cooperation on mutually designated CTPs/CTPPs, including notifications of investigations and best endeavors to share material information where legally and operationally...
Complements the UK's CTP regime (effective 1 January 2025), which requires designated CTPs to provide regular assurance, conduct resilience testing, and report major incidents, without altering...
Supported by a tripartite MoU among UK regulators for coordinated oversight via a joint CTP Consultation and Coordination Forum (CCF).
Suggested Considerations
For CTPs/CTPPs: Once designated, implement regular assurance reporting to regulators, conduct resilience testing (e.g., scenario testing), and report major incidents promptly; prepare for cross-border information requests under the MoU.
For financial firms/FMIs: Continue managing operational resilience and third-party risks per existing outsourcing rules (e.g., identify dependencies on potential CTPs); monitor HMT designations and enhance incident response coordination with regulators.
Regulators' internal actions: Use CCF for coordination; notify counterparts of investigations or material developments per MoU Article 3 and 12.
Firms should review contracts with third parties for compliance alignment and conduct gap analyses against CTP requirements.
Key Dates
1 January 2025
UK CTP rules came into effect, applying to CTPs designated by HMT
Ongoing (process begun pre
2025); HMT designation process for CTPs, with regulators recommending based on concentration and materiality criteria; no fixed end date specified
DORA effective date (prior context)
EU CTPPs oversight under DORA aligns with UK regime; MoU signed to ensure compatibility (exact DORA timeline not in publication but supports post-2024 implementation)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High โ The MoU operationalizes the live UK CTP regime (effective January 2025), with designations underway, amplifying risks of non-compliance for firms using critical ICT providers amid rising cyber and resilience threats. It matters for cross-border firms as it enables regulator-to-regulator data sharing, potentially exposing gaps in outsourcing arrangements and increasing enforcement scrutiny without fines on CTPs yet possible future powers.
People could find it easier to pay using contactless, thanks to greater flexibility and the removal of red tape by the FCA. Banks and payment providers with strong fraud controls will be able to set their own limit for contactless payments, allowing them to better respond to changing consumer demands, inflation and new technology. They are also being encouraged to let customers set their own limit, or turn contactless off altogether, as many high street banks already do. People are using cont...
Open banking in the UK is growing rapidly. Latest industry figures show there are more than 16 million users now benefiting from the service. The number of open banking payments has soared by 53% year on year, reflecting a significant shift in how consumers and businesses manage their finances.See the API performance statsA key driver of this transformation is the rise of variable recurring payments (VRPs), which now account for 16% of all open banking transactions. VRPs allow consumers and b...
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Operations Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Legal Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC), which is a forum for discussion of the wholesale foreign exchange market. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England welcomes the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recognition of the 2024 versions of the FX Global Code and UK Money Markets Code under its code recognition scheme.
This joint PRA-FCA consultation (CP23/25 from PRA and Chapter 4 of FCA's CP25/33) proposes policy updates to regulatory fees, levies, and invoice processes for 2026/27, including new fee blocks for emerging activities like PISCES operators and targeted support, alongside adjustments to FOS/FSCS levies and payment timelines. It matters for compliance teams as it directly impacts budgeting, fee calculations, and cash flow management for fee-payers, with potential cost increases and procedural changes effective from April 2026.
What Changed
- New fee structures: Introduction of a periodic fee block for PISCES operators based on regulated income (baseline ยฃ2,200 annual fee, variable above ยฃ500,000 threshold); extension of fee-block A.13...
Levy adjustments: Addition of targeted support to FSCS Class 2, Category 2.1 (life distribution/investment intermediation) for both FOS and FSCS levies based on annual eligible income; withdrawal of...
PRA-FCA joint proposals (Chapter 4): Amended invoice due dates for firms paying ยฃ50,000+ in annual FCA/PRA fees ("payments on account") to prevent overdue labels from procedural mismatches.
Other updates: Removal of ยฃ3 agent registration fee for payment institutions, RAISPs, and EMIs; policy tweaks like expanding skilled person reviews for motor finance to more lenders, pro-rating for...
Suggested Considerations
Review current fee/levy exposure and model impacts of new blocks (e.g., PISCES, targeted support, DPC) and withdrawn FOS changes.
Assess invoice processes if paying ยฃ50,000+ in FCA/PRA fees; prepare for aligned due dates.
Submit consultation responses by deadlines, focusing on targeted support by 9 January 2026.
Budget for potential fee increases; monitor Spring 2026 fee-rates CP.
For applicants: Factor in new Category 4 fees for A.13 or crypto/DPC registrations.
Key Dates
9 January 2026DEADLINE
- Deadline for comments on targeted support proposals (FCA CP25/33 paras 2.11-2.18, questions 3-7)
16 January 2026
- Consultation close for all other proposals, including PRA-FCA joint changes; responses to cp25-33@fca.org.uk
February 2026
- FCA publishes feedback and rules on targeted support in Handbook Notice
March 2026
- FCA publishes feedback and rules on all other proposals (including Chapter 4) in Handbook Notice; Spring fee-rates consultation
April 2026
- PRA publishes feedback and rules on Chapter 4; changes effective for 2026/27 fee year (April-March)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High โ Firms must act imminently on consultation responses (deadlines passed as of today, but feedback analysis pending March/April 2026 rules) to influence outcomes; changes affect 2026/27 budgets starting April, with cash flow risks from invoice timing and new fees for emerging activities like PISCES/DPC. Non-engagement risks unbudgeted costs and procedural breaches (e.g., overdue invoices).
This was the first meeting of the Market Participants Group (MPG), a senior-level forum for financial market participants to share their views on relevant themes and narratives in financial markets with members of the Bank of Englandโs Monetary Policy Committee.
The PRA's PS22/25 finalizes an increase in the retail deposits threshold for the leverage ratio requirement from ยฃ50 billion to ยฃ75 billion, introducing a three-year averaging mechanism for calculations, effective 1 January 2026. This adjustment reflects nominal UK GDP growth since 2016 to maintain the Financial Policy Committee's original risk appetite while smoothing cliff-edge effects for firms like building societies. It matters for major UK banks and similar firms as it alters capital planning and leverage ratio applicability, potentially reducing immediate compliance burdens for those nearing the old threshold.
What Changed
- Retail deposits threshold raised from ยฃ50 billion to ยฃ75 billion, adjusted upward from the CP2/25 proposal of ยฃ70 billion to account for further GDP growth to Q2 2025 (rounded to nearest ยฃ5...
Introduction of a three-year moving average for calculating retail deposits metric, replacing point-in-time values to mitigate volatility and aid capital planning, particularly for building societies.
Non-UK assets threshold remains unchanged at ยฃ10 billion.
Modifications by consent disapplying leverage ratio rules during review will cease on 30 June 2026.
These changes are implemented via updates to the Leverage Ratio โ Capital Requirements and Buffers...
Suggested Considerations
Review and update internal retail deposits calculations to incorporate three-year moving average methodology starting 1 January 2026.
Assess current and projected retail deposits against ยฃ75 billion threshold (and ยฃ10 billion non-UK assets) to determine leverage ratio applicability and adjust capital planning accordingly.
Prepare to meet 3.25% leverage ratio minimum plus buffers if thresholds breached, including systems updates for averaging and reporting.
For firms with modifications by consent: Plan transition back to full leverage ratio rules by 30 June 2026, including any necessary capital raises or disclosures.
Update governance, risk models, and board reporting to reflect changes; conduct gap analysis against PRA Rulebook appendices in PS22/25.
Key Dates
5 March 2025
- PRA publishes Consultation Paper CP2/25 proposing ยฃ70 billion threshold
5 June 2025DEADLINE
- Consultation response deadline
12 November 2025
- PRA issues PS22/25 with final policy
1 January 2026
- Final policy takes effect, applying new ยฃ75 billion threshold and three-year averaging
30 June 2026
- Cessation of modifications by consent disapplying leverage ratio rules
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High โ With effectiveness just after today (1 January 2026), firms near ยฃ50-75 billion in retail deposits face immediate recalibration of leverage exposures and capital buffers to avoid breaches, amplified by the shift to averaging which requires historical data reconstruction. Non-compliance risks PRA enforcement, heightened scrutiny, or capital inadequacy findings, but the higher threshold and averaging provide planning relief versus the status quo.
The Bank of England (the Bank) has today published a consultation paper (CP) setting out its proposed regulatory regime for sterling-denominated systemic stablecoins.
AI Analysis
The Bank of England has published a consultation paper (issued November 10, 2025) proposing a comprehensive regulatory regime for **sterling-denominated systemic stablecoins**, establishing requirements for backing assets, capital, redemption procedures, and operational safeguards. This represents a pivotal step toward implementing the UK's stablecoin framework, with the regime designed to maintain financial stability while enabling viable business models for systemic stablecoin issuers.
What Changed
The proposed regulatory regime introduces several material requirements for systemic stablecoin issuers:
Backing Asset Composition
Systemic stablecoin issuers will be permitted to hold up to 60% of backing assets in short-term sterling-denominated UK government debt, with the remaining 40% held as deposits at the Bank of England.
Suggested Considerations
*For Systemic Stablecoin Issuers:
*Monitor and respond to consultation - Submit detailed comments on proposals before February 2026 deadline, particularly on:
Alternative tools to achieve regulatory objectives
Backing asset composition and holding limits
Safeguarding regime design
Key Dates
November 10, 2025
- Bank of England published consultation paper on proposed regulatory regime
2026
- Expected implementation of UK stablecoin regime (timeline subject to consultation outcomes)
February 2026DEADLINE
- Consultation deadline (industry to submit comments)
Further consultation expected
- On detailed design of safeguarding regime and central bank liquidity arrangements
**PS20/25** represents the second and final phase of the PRA's "Strong and Simple Framework," establishing a significantly simplified capital regime for Small Domestic Deposit Takers (SDDTs) while maintaining their resilience. This near-final policy statement, published on 28 October 2025, fundamentally restructures capital requirements, liquidity rules, and operational frameworks for SDDTsโa critical development for smaller deposit-taking institutions seeking regulatory relief from disproportionate compliance burdens.
What Changed
The simplified capital regime introduces structural changes across all three pillars of capital requirements:
Pillar 1 (Risk-Weighted Assets)
SDDTs must apply Basel 3.1 standardised approaches for credit risk and operational risk, with specific simplifications.
Due diligence requirements in the standardised approach to credit risk are disapplied for SDDTs.
Counterparty credit risk (CCR) for derivatives and credit valuation adjustment (CVA) risk are disapplied (with minor exceptions).
Market risk framework is simplified, with SDDTs applying the credit risk approach to trading book positions and removal of foreign-exchange and commodity risk capital requirements.
Suggested Considerations
*For SDDTs Currently Operating or Considering Entry:
*Notification Decision โ Determine whether to enter the SDDT regime and submit notification to the PRA by 31 March 2026 if seeking to benefit from simplified rules.
*Policy Review โ Conduct comprehensive review of PS20/25, related policy statements (PS18/25, PS19/25, PS8/25, PS14/25), and supporting methodologies (SoP5/25, SS4/25, amendments to SoP2/23).
*Capital Calculation Transition โ Prepare systems and processes to transition from current capital calculation methodologies to Basel 3.1 standardised approaches with SDDT simplifications, including:
Removal of CCR and CVA calculations for derivatives
Key Dates
2026 (specific date TBD)
โ PRA to make final rules and policy covering the entire Basel 3.1 package once HM Treasury makes commencement regulations to revoke relevant CRR provisions
31 March 2026DEADLINE
โ Deadline for firms wishing to enter the SDDT regime to notify the PRA and benefit from the simplified framework at implementation
1 January 2027
โ Implementation date for the simplified capital regime for SDDTs; the Interim Capital Regime will no longer apply
2027 (specific date TBD)
โ PRA to implement restatement of CRR requirements (PS19/25)
Publication from the Bank, PRA and FCA to firms and financial market infrastructures highlighting observed effective practices of cyber response and recovery capabilities.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC), which is a forum for discussion of the wholesale foreign exchange market. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Legal Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Operations Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.