The FCA has advised as follows:

“We currently use six-digit Firm reference Numbers (FRNs) to uniquely identify firms, and six-digit Product Reference Numbers (PRNs) to uniquely identify funds. We’re likely to reach the six-digit limit (999999) during 2023, given the volume of applications and notifications we receive.

We’re planning a move to seven-digit FRNs and PRNs for all newly registered firms and funds. Firms that have previously been allocated a six-digit FRN or PRN will keep that number. They won’t change. Seven-digit numbers will start to be allocated for new applications and notifications once our six-digit range is exhausted.

We haven’t fixed a date for when this will happen but we’re on track to make the necessary changes to our internal systems in good time.”