'Will this return us to one-size-fits-all?': Industry divided over Reeves' Consumer Duty wholesale review

Wholesale exemption would ‘adversely affect the Duty’s objectives’

Sahar Nazir
clock • 5 min read

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ directive for the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to review the impact of the Consumer Duty on wholesale firms has been welcomed but has also raised concerns that revisiting the Duty’s scope could dilute consumer protections and risk a return to a “one-size-fits-all” approach the regulation was designed to move away from.

The chancellor's instruction forms part of a broader regulatory overhaul unveiled by the government on Tuesday (15 July) through its Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy consultation. In her Mansion House speech, Reeves asked the FCA to how it will tackle concerns around how the Duty applies to wholesale distribution chains that impact retail consumers. Further, the FCA was asked to provide "certainty" around the classification of professional clients. It is expected to test its proposals with market participants, consumer groups, and industry bodies before deliverin...

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 Your profession

The paradox of invisible value: How to ensure clients recognise the power of advice in volatile times

The paradox of invisible value: How to ensure clients recognise the power of advice in volatile times

'Investing is not just a technical exercise; it’s an emotional one'

Kate Rainbow
clock 03 August 2026 • 4 min read
The Platforms Association acquires the UK Platform Awards

The Platforms Association acquires the UK Platform Awards

Clive Waller hands over the awards programme

Isabel Baxter
clock 30 July 2026 • 2 min read
FCA bereavement survey sent to just 12 firms – 'A very small dip in the ocean'

FCA bereavement survey sent to just 12 firms – 'A very small dip in the ocean'

Covers advisers, platforms and wealth managers

Sophia Panayi
clock 30 July 2026 • 3 min read