FCA to make advisers choose between independent and restricted service

New MiFID II rules

Tom Ellis
clock • 2 min read

Financial advisers must choose either to be independent or restricted and can no longer switch between the two types of service, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has said.

In its latest Markets in Financial Instruments Directives II (MiFID II) policy statement the regulator said it was "required" to implement the independence measure because it was a MiFID II "delegated regulation". "Delegated regulations" are EU-wide rules that are directly applicable, which means they can take effect in the UK without the need for changes to domestic laws and regulations. Firms will still be able to provide both independent and restricted advice but the FCA said individual advisers cannot change between the two statuses. This is to avoid potential consumer confusion a...

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

Viewing Consumer Duty through the vulnerability lens

Viewing Consumer Duty through the vulnerability lens

Clients can be vulnerable in many ways

Mark Sanderson
clock 14 August 2025 • 4 min read
Why the FCA's data request demands more than compliance

Why the FCA's data request demands more than compliance

Shift towards data-driven regulation arrives at a 'pivotal juncture'

Claire Cherrington
clock 31 July 2025 • 4 min read
The FCA and non-financial misconduct: Updated rules and guidance

The FCA and non-financial misconduct: Updated rules and guidance

'The FCA hopes that the proposed amendments will increase clarity and consistency'

Claire Cross
clock 29 July 2025 • 4 min read