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

FCA investigates 11 potential Consumer Duty breaches including small IFA

FCA investigates 11 potential Consumer Duty breaches including small IFA

Publishes good practice review

Michael Nelson
clock 13 July 2026 • 4 min read
FCA review predicts AI will reshape investment management through 'agentic finance'

FCA review predicts AI will reshape investment management through 'agentic finance'

Sheldon Mills review

clock 06 July 2026 • 3 min read
News editor's view: FCA continues to bring the heat 

News editor's view: FCA continues to bring the heat 

The news editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 3 July

Isabel Baxter
clock 03 July 2026 • 3 min read