FCA warns firms on streamlined advice suitability

Suitablility remains "core element"

Tom Ellis
clock • 2 min read

Firms offering streamlined advice must be careful to obtain and understand "all the essential facts" to make sure they provide a suitable recommendation to clients, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has warned.

Despite offering a narrower scope, streamlined advice services will not allow firms to lower the level of protection due to clients, the FCA warned in its guidance consultation on the matter out on 11 April. However, the FCA said firms giving the service may not have to perform an analysis of all a client's circumstances. They will be expected to have a "reasonable basis" for believing a recommendation meets a client's investment objectives, is suitable for the client, and that the client has the necessary experience and knowledge to understand the risks involved.  Nevertheless, as...

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

Verve flags adviser hesitance over compliance switching

Verve flags adviser hesitance over compliance switching

Launches guide

Jen Frost
clock 06 February 2026 • 2 min read
Failed financial advice firms tracker

Failed financial advice firms tracker

Firms that the FSCS has confirmed as failed since the start of 2023

Professional Adviser
clock 06 February 2026 • 1 min read
Navigating FCA skilled person reviews, remediation, and past business reviews

Navigating FCA skilled person reviews, remediation, and past business reviews

Risk of s166 review has 'never been more significant'

Marjolaine Quirke
clock 05 February 2026 • 2 min read