FCA to act even earlier to counter charges of 'retrospective regulation'

Laura Miller
clock

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has said it will look to take even earlier pre-emptive action against what it believes is bad practice in a bid to counter accusations from the industry that it unfairly employs retrospective regulation.

The regulator used its early intervention powers 31 times in 2014, up from 14 in the previous 12 months. Now this figure looks set to rise even further, in what is likely to be an unexpected consequence of complaints from the industry that the FCA has a habit of applying a more demanding standard or interpretation of its rules after the event. The concern most often raised by financial firms was that "previous inaction [by the regulator] suggested either approval or regulatory indifference", the FCA said. Firms had "taken this as a sign that they could continue, for example, sellin...

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

Professional Adviser TV: Remaining client centric in a time of increased regulation and digital demands

Professional Adviser TV: Remaining client centric in a time of increased regulation and digital demands

Kevin Bailey and James Sullivan also unpack what value looks like

Professional Adviser
clock 04 July 2025 • 1 min read
Targeted support: FCA shuns 'overly prescriptive' approach to vulnerability

Targeted support: FCA shuns 'overly prescriptive' approach to vulnerability

Considered prescribing how firms should support ‘vulnerable consumers’

Isabel Baxter
clock 30 June 2025 • 2 min read
Targeted support: 38,000 current advice users expected to switch

Targeted support: 38,000 current advice users expected to switch

Firms could generate up to £499 in revenue per customer

Isabel Baxter
clock 30 June 2025 • 4 min read