Former Woodford founders spoke to FCA in 2015 about strategy concerns - reports

Regulator only stepped in nearly two years later

clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) was made aware of concerns about Neil Woodford's investment strategy at his fund management business back in 2015, but did not act until nearly two years later, according to reports.

The Financial Times has reported that the regulator was informed about the running of Woodford Investment Management (WIM) when Nick Hamilton and Gray Smith, two of WIM's founding partners, left the business within its first year. Hamilton, who had been chief operating officer at Woodford's business, and Smith, chief legal and compliance officer, were interviewed by the FCA in January 2015 to explain their reasons for exiting but no further action was taken, according to "those familiar with the regulator's dealings with the company". Hamilton and Smith were said to be particularly co...

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 Investment

Party politics: Why investors should celebrate AIM's 30th birthday, even if the government won't

Party politics: Why investors should celebrate AIM's 30th birthday, even if the government won't

AIM has helped 4,000 businesses raise £135bn since launch

Eustace Santa Barbara
clock 19 June 2025 • 4 min read
AIM at 30: Why advisers should take a fresh look at the UK's junior market

AIM at 30: Why advisers should take a fresh look at the UK's junior market

'We see AIM as a jewel in the crown with long-term appeal for the right clients'

Oliver Brown
clock 17 June 2025 • 4 min read
Taking the rough with the smooth: How to navigate global market volatility

Taking the rough with the smooth: How to navigate global market volatility

'Like investing, smoothing isn't one-size-fits-all'

James Tothill
clock 13 June 2025 • 4 min read