DIM CAPABILITY

Savvy IFAs looking to offload their businesses in the New Year are building up their profits to entice buyers rather than relying on selling on a recurring trail basis, according to a consultancy that deals in adviser merger and acquisitions.

HSBC is weighing up floating its UK arm, according to reports, ahead of new rules that demand banks ringfence their retail banking operations.

MPs have refused to grant the regulator the power to ban individuals before its investigations into them are completed, due in part to the "serious harm" it could cause small firms.

Labour's plans to freeze energy prices could ruin investors in energy companies, the head of the OECD has told BBC's Panorama programme.

SCOTLAND

There has been a 40% rise in reports by businesses of potential insider dealing to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), according to figures compiled by regulatory consultancy Bovil.

The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) is currently undertaking a survey of consumers to see what impact the changes brought about by the Retail Distribution Review has had on them and their view of advice.

The Retail Distribution Review (RDR) has "intensified the competitive environment", according to wealth manager Brewin Dolphin, as it announces profit before tax for the year to September was 4% down on the previous year.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued a warning to investors about an unauthorised firm it believes has been targeting people in the UK.