FCA slams automated investment providers

Poor practice highlighted

Tom Ellis
clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has singled out the poor practice of firms offering automated investment services and automated online discretionary management in its latest report.

The watchdog's multi-firm review found issues in the market relating to service disclosures, suitability assessments, ongoing client relationships, vulnerable customers and overall governance. "We expect automated investment services to meet the same regulatory standards as traditional discretionary or advisory services," the FCA said. "This means taking a proportionate approach to information gathering while maintaining the appropriate level of client protection." The issues Outlining the failures of market participants, the FCA said it found examples of auto advice services under...

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's CP26/10 lets firms gather less - it doesn't let them assume more

FCA's CP26/10 lets firms gather less - it doesn't let them assume more

'A family knowing a client's wishes is not the same as the client stating them'

Mark Buck
clock 15 September 2026 • 5 min read
What the FCA's Mills review means for financial services

What the FCA's Mills review means for financial services

Regulatory expectations will need to evolve as AI becomes more autonomous

Jessica Caws and Cheryl Tham
clock 07 September 2026 • 6 min read
AI and compliance: Charging for advice or administration?

AI and compliance: Charging for advice or administration?

Efficiency doesn't remove accountability

Gareth Fatchett
clock 03 September 2026 • 3 min read