Regulations
By Steven Anderson
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Application Details for Firms. Firms can apply through the FCA's Connect system starting now.
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Industry Reaction and Timeline. The Association of British Insurers backs the move. Huw Evans, Director General of the ABI, thinks…
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The FCA just opened its authorisation gateway for targeted financial support. Starting April 6, 2026, banks and pension providers can offer tailored guidance to specific consumer…
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The new system basically lets firms give advice to groups with similar needs - like young professionals saving for houses or retirees managing pension drawdowns.
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Firms can apply through the FCA's Connect system starting now. The regulator launched something called the Pre-Application Support Service (PASS) last year to help companies…
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The application process isn't exactly simple though. Firms need to prove they understand specific consumer groups and can deliver advice that meets regulatory standards without…
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Companies developing targeted support offerings should keep talking to the FCA throughout the process.
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Sheldon Mills, Executive Director of Consumers and Competition at the FCA, said the regulator wants financial guidance that's "both affordable and tailored to the needs of…
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The Association of British Insurers backs the move. Huw Evans, Director General of the ABI, thinks the initiative "could significantly impact how firms interact with consumers,…
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But there's a catch. Evans stressed the importance of collaboration between industry and the FCA to make these reforms work.
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The Financial Services Consumer Panel got involved in consultations too. They've been pushing for measures that put consumer interests first and improve the overall quality of…
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The April 2026 deadline is pretty tight for firms that haven't started preparing yet. Companies need to understand the FCA's specific criteria for targeted support services,…
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This targeted support thing is part of the FCA's broader push to modernize UK financial services.
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The FCA keeps providing resources and guidance as the deadline approaches. Their proactive approach shows they're serious about improving financial outcomes for consumers across…
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The regulator outlined specific criteria firms must meet for authorisation. Companies need to demonstrate they understand consumer needs and can deliver tailored advice…
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