FCA opens up regulatory sandbox

Can now apply throughout the year

Sophie King
clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has made its regulatory sandbox available for applications throughout the entire year.

The sandbox had previously operated on a cohort basis, meaning firms could only apply during specific windows. "While the cohort approach was appropriate for a testing environment, which served as a blueprint for regulators all over the world, the sandbox required changes to reflect its maturity and the lessons learned since its inception in 2016," the watchdog said. "The Kalifa Review of UK FinTech recommended that the sandbox be enhanced to provide more value to firms. This included a specific recommendation that the sandbox be made available on a rolling basis, rather than through ...

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

DB transfer adviser hit with provisional FCA ban and £742,700 fine

DB transfer adviser hit with provisional FCA ban and £742,700 fine

Daniel Thomas advised 53 clients, including four British Steel scheme members

Sophia Panayi
clock 03 September 2026 • 2 min read
Proving good customer outcomes still a challenge for financial planners

Proving good customer outcomes still a challenge for financial planners

Firms face practical challenges in Consumer Duty board reporting

Sophia Panayi
clock 03 September 2026 • 2 min read
'Watershed moment' as FCA's non-financial misconduct rules come into force

'Watershed moment' as FCA's non-financial misconduct rules come into force

Enforcement ‘not a question of if, but when’

Michael Nelson
clock 02 September 2026 • 2 min read