Vince Smith-Hughes: FOS decisions - what can we learn?

Perfect hindsight

clock • 9 min read

Vince Smith-Hughes takes a deep dive into some retirement-related FOS decisions and urges advisers to learn from other people's mistakes, not their own (it is cheaper that way...)

A learned colleague often uses a phrase that his foresight is based on perfect hindsight. In effect, his first thought on what may or may not happen in the industry going forward is based upon what has gone before, and in particular what mistakes we have made. When it comes to avoiding complaints regarding advice my colleague's thinking seems like a sensible ploy - after all looking at what has gone before can help us ensure that our processes are as tight as they can be. In this regard, the latest Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) data for 2020/2021 throws up some interesting insight...

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

Appointed representatives: Are you really in control of the risks?

Appointed representatives: Are you really in control of the risks?

'The FCA doesn't just want oversight, it wants evidence'

Paul Bruns
clock 06 October 2026 • 7 min read
Manchester City charges: Treasury Committee chair raises tax questions with HMRC

Manchester City charges: Treasury Committee chair raises tax questions with HMRC

As Tax Policy Associates points to potential £12m in unpaid tax

Jen Frost
clock 02 October 2026 • 2 min read
'Waiting for certainty can itself create the breach': When must a firm notify the FCA?

'Waiting for certainty can itself create the breach': When must a firm notify the FCA?

'A voicemail is unlikely to suffice'

Gareth Fatchett
clock 02 October 2026 • 5 min read