FCA uncovers 'significant client risk' in retail CFD market

CFDs are complex, high-risk instruments

Jenna Towler
clock • 3 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has written to all providers and distributors of contracts for difference (CFD) products to retail customers after discovering market failings which "may cause significant consumer harm".

The FCA said the majority (76%) of retail customers who bought CFD products on either an advisory or discretionary basis lost money during the period it looked at. It added many of the 19 firms it had reviewed decided not to continue selling these products and it found one CFD provider whose arrangements were so poor that it would "take further action". CFDs are complex, high-risk instruments sold to retail investors on either an advisory or discretionary (including limited power of attorney) portfolio management basis. The FCA recently conducted a review of the market and assessed...

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 data information request: Four focus areas for advisers

FCA data information request: Four focus areas for advisers

‘Data is not just a compliance tool it’s a strategic asset’

Chris Davies
clock 07 July 2025 • 5 min read
FCA to extend bullying and harassment rules to non-banks

FCA to extend bullying and harassment rules to non-banks

Extension will apply to 37,000 firms

Cristian Angeloni
clock 02 July 2025 • 2 min read
Regulatory necessity: Why data is no longer a 'nice to have'

Regulatory necessity: Why data is no longer a 'nice to have'

Client-led, data-driven

Paul Bruns
clock 01 July 2025 • 5 min read