D2C industry slams regulator for hampering much-needed innovation

Carmen Reichman
clock

Financial services industry players have voiced their frustrations about the regulator's lack of clarity in the direct to consumer (D2C) and simplified advice space, saying it is hampering innovation and preventing them from bridging the advice gap.

At a round table organised by adviser solutions provide eValue, delegates from across the D2C space agreed that more innovation and different business models were needed to make the market more competitive and reach consumers who have been shut out of the advice space. But some said the lack of clear regulation was hampering development among firms, because many D2C operators are scared of the consequences of unwittingly straying into the advice space. The regulator is currently conducting a thematic review into the non-advised space, which the industry hopes will result in a clear ru...

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 Regulation

Regulatory and employment-related changes – what do firms need to prepare for?

Regulatory and employment-related changes – what do firms need to prepare for?

‘Getting these issues right is not just about avoiding regulatory action or tribunal claims’

Sophie White
clock 21 August 2025 • 4 min read
FOS fees could fall if cases resolved early

FOS fees could fall if cases resolved early

Consultation seeking to modernise charges

Jenna Brown
clock 13 August 2025 • 2 min read
Consumer Duty two years on: Challenges remain for advisers

Consumer Duty two years on: Challenges remain for advisers

‘Biggest challenge for advisers at the moment'

Sahar Nazir
clock 31 July 2025 • 4 min read