FCA splits advice from guidance in new complaints rules

Carmen Reichman
clock

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has for the first time distinguished between advice and guidance in the way it records complaints.

The regulator used to categorise complaints against financial services firms under 'misleading advice/guidance', 'arranging', or 'inappropriate sales technique'. But in an update published on 23 July, it said it would now categorise relevant gripes as either 'unsuitable advice' or 'unclear guidance/arrangement'. The distinction will give the regulator a clearer idea of how many complaints were made specifically about regulated financial advice, and how many related to 'guidance', it said. It said it had received feedback pointing out the original wording was misleading. Use of t...

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

'Risk aversion' from FCA and PRA limiting UK growth and competitiveness

'Risk aversion' from FCA and PRA limiting UK growth and competitiveness

Regulators 'constraining firms', House of Lords report claims

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 13 June 2025 • 2 min read
FCA targeted support communication to 'ramp up' as further guidance issued

FCA targeted support communication to 'ramp up' as further guidance issued

Regulator expected to update the industry this month

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 June 2025 • 5 min read
FCA joins forces with international regulators on illegal finfluencer crackdown

FCA joins forces with international regulators on illegal finfluencer crackdown

Nine regulators from across the globe come together

Isabel Baxter
clock 06 June 2025 • 3 min read