FCA dismisses criticisms of its market studies

13 studies begun since April 2013

Tom Ellis
clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has dismissed criticisms of its approach to market studies after firms and trade bodies complained they take too long to complete and are too burdensome on businesses.

In response to its Approach to Competition consultation paper, published last December, the regulator said a number of firms and trade organisations had complained its market study process was "too long" and required too much resource from companies within the studies' scopes. Respondents to the watchdog's paper suggested it should take less time to carry out market studies because markets can change and evolve quickly. The regulator argued that, when carrying out market studies, it considers market dynamics and the fact markets are constantly evolving and conditions may change. The F...

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

Why well-run advice firms still shoulder an unfair FSCS burden - and what needs to change

Why well-run advice firms still shoulder an unfair FSCS burden - and what needs to change

Tom Hegarty shares his views on the FSCS levy and why things need to change...

Tom Hegarty
clock 08 January 2026 • 4 min read
FCA Consolidation Review: Key actions for firms navigating M&A

FCA Consolidation Review: Key actions for firms navigating M&A

What does best practice look like?

Professional Adviser
clock 07 January 2026 • 4 min read
FCA removes regulatory permissions from advice firm over breaches

FCA removes regulatory permissions from advice firm over breaches

Ups assets restriction and notes unpaid FOS award

Jen Frost
clock 22 December 2025 • 2 min read