FSA says only industry will decide if Level 4 too low

Katrina Lloyd
clock

The FSA has moved to reassure IFAs any hikes in mandatory qualifications above QCF Level 4 post-RDR will only be implemented if the industry decides this is needed.

Some qualifications providers and support services groups have already started offering advisers the chance to work towards QCF Level 5 and Level 6 standards in the belief the goalposts will be raised post-2012. However, the FSA told IFAonline today any changes to the main qualification requirements would be driven by the industry and not the regulator.  Katharine Leaman, manager in the FSA' s Professional Standards Policy team, says: "The overall level would only change if industry practitioners in consultation with the FSSC decided it is needed. "This kind of consultation proc...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Why human connection remains central in a digitally enabled advice sector

Why human connection remains central in a digitally enabled advice sector

'It is clear that the sector is moving through a significant period of transformation'

Tim Riseborough
clock 17 December 2025 • 3 min read
Why advisers shouldn't rush into private markets

Why advisers shouldn't rush into private markets

'There's only so long the hamster wheel can keep turning'

Justin Cash
clock 15 December 2025 • 4 min read
Adviser workload set to rocket ahead of IHT on pensions changes

Adviser workload set to rocket ahead of IHT on pensions changes

Large volumes of clients will need reviews of financial plans

Isabel Baxter
clock 15 December 2025 • 3 min read