Stephen Whitfield: Six months to SM&CR - how can firms get ahead?

Incorporating SM&CR into company culture

clock • 4 min read

As we approach the halfway point of the year, explains Stephen Whitfield, financial firms should already have a clear understanding of their classification and the steps they need to take to comply with the SM&CR

This December will see the introduction of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR) as part of the FCA's drive to improve governance and deter misconduct in the financial services sector. The SM&CR applies to solo-regulated firms and will pave the way for a new standard of personal conduct, placing greater accountability on managers and encouraging a healthier culture. While it has been emphasised the aim of the regime is to improve cultural accountability rather than penalise businesses, affected firms - and individuals - need to be sure they are prepared for the new regulat...

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

AI and compliance: Charging for advice or administration?

AI and compliance: Charging for advice or administration?

Efficiency doesn't remove accountability

Gareth Fatchett
clock 03 September 2026 • 3 min read
FCA warns of Flagstone clone

FCA warns of Flagstone clone

Notice issued to alert consumers

Jenna Brown
clock 03 September 2026 • 3 min read
Andrew Goodwin: As the regulator plays catch-up, should advisers race towards AI's cutting edge?

Andrew Goodwin: As the regulator plays catch-up, should advisers race towards AI's cutting edge?

'The review offers tangible evidence of the FCA playing catch-up'

Andrew Goodwin
clock 01 September 2026 • 4 min read