FCA publishes final rules on diversity disclosures for listed companies

'Allows flexibility'

clock • 2 min read

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has finalised rules that will mandate listed companies to report on their diversity at board and executive management level.

The financial watchdog has confirmed that failure to meet set targets must be accompanied with an explanation as to why. The FCA has said its approach "allows flexibility for smaller firms or those based overseas." Boards of listed companies must consist of at least 40% women, with at least one woman at senior board level, according to the FCA.  Companies must also have at least one board member from a black or ethnic minority group. According to the watchdog, businesses will be able to choose how best to collect data from their employees and report on progress. "As investors...

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