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

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 16 March 2026 • 1 min read
Administrators appointed at alleged £23m unauthorised investment scheme firm

Administrators appointed at alleged £23m unauthorised investment scheme firm

FCA issued High Court proceedings against Concept Capital Group last year

Jen Frost
clock 13 March 2026 • 2 min read
Advice firm and alternative investment fund manager declared in default

Advice firm and alternative investment fund manager declared in default

Chancery Partnership and MCI Global Investment Advisors

Jen Frost
clock 09 March 2026 • 2 min read