Adviser platforms have 'inherent conflict' - FCA

Will address issue in platform review

Tom Ellis
clock • 1 min read

Adviser platforms suffer from an 'inherent conflict', the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has said in its Annual Competition Report.

According to the regulator, the conflict arises because platforms are selected, and usually used, by the adviser while being paid for by the client. It said addressing this issue was a "high priority".  The financial watchdog revealed it would launch an investigation into the platform market in April after its Asset Management Study interim report "highlighted a number of areas for concern and identified potential competition issues in the investment platforms market". Last week, the FCA also revealed it would assess firms' vertical integration and "the entire value chain" of investin...

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

Independently East declared failed by FSCS

Independently East declared failed by FSCS

Advice firm entered liquidation in 2023

Professional Adviser
clock 19 November 2025 • 2 min read
FCA consolidation review 'a warning shot' for acquirers

FCA consolidation review 'a warning shot' for acquirers

Regulator’s findings a ‘wake-up call’ for private equity and consolidators

Sahar Nazir
clock 05 November 2025 • 5 min read
Expanded AML remit for the FCA: a good or bad thing?

Expanded AML remit for the FCA: a good or bad thing?

'Lots of issues to work through' before changes come into force

Colette Best
clock 05 November 2025 • 3 min read