In this episode, Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae discuss:

• The FCA’s review of the Consumer Duty products and services outcome and what good practice looks like in product governance

• Common weaknesses identified by the regulator, including target market definition, vulnerable customer support and distribution oversight

• The FCA’s increasing focus on evidencing good customer outcomes rather than simply demonstrating processes

• The regulator’s escalation of Consumer Duty supervision and enforcement activity, including live investigations and intervention powers

• The findings of the Mills Review and the growing role of AI, including governance, accountability and algorithmic risk considerations

• A new PIMFA and Macfarlanes guide on information sharing to help firms tackle economic crime

As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, firms are being challenged to demonstrate not only that they have controls in place, but that those controls are delivering measurable outcomes. This episode explores what those expectations mean in practice and highlights key developments firms should have on their radar.

In this episode, Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae discuss:

• The FCA’s proposed refinements to the scope of Consumer Duty and what “proportionate” oversight should look like in practice

• The regulator’s concerns around legacy unit-linked pensions and savings products, including fair value challenges

• Findings from the FCA’s review of pre-sale investment disclosures and the drive for clearer consumer communications

• Consultation CP26/24 and proposed changes to simplify investment disclosure requirements

• FCA fees and levies for 2026/27, including the increase in the Financial Ombudsman Service levy

• Developments in the FCA’s thinking on a future regulatory framework for cryptoassets

The discussion explores the practical implications for advisers, compliance teams and regulated firms, highlighting where firms may need to review existing approaches, improve consumer understanding and prepare for future regulatory change.

In this episode of Beyond the Buzz, Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae unpack the latest regulatory developments shaping the financial services landscape. They explore the FCA’s renewed focus on the SIPP market through consultation CP26/20, highlighting the shift toward stronger oversight, clearer expectations, and more robust due diligence, particularly for higher-risk investments and third-party reliance.

The discussion also covers PIMFA’s new guide on non-financial misconduct, emphasising why culture, behaviour, and accountability are now firmly in scope for regulators ahead of the FCA’s updated rules coming into force in September 2026.

We also break down insights from the FCA’s review of financial crime controls in insurance, including common weaknesses and the importance of clear accountability frameworks such as RACI. Rounding off the episode are quick updates on shareholder voting practices and a practical FCA guide for smaller credit brokers.

A must-listen for compliance professionals looking to stay ahead of regulatory expectations.