The FCA has published a Policy Statement, PS17/11, following its consultation about Appropriate Qualifications CP16/24. While this was mainly aimed at Accreditation Bodies you should be aware there are some minor changes to the TC Appendices.
One of the areas consulted on was the possibility of changing the Equity Release qualification. However, based on replies received, the FCA has decided that there is no market need for a change to the appropriate qualification for equity release.
In addition to the above, the FCA does have a best practice page on its website for recruiting, training and supervising staff. We recommend T&C supervisors familiarise themselves with this page.
FCS Transitional Arrangements
Steve Bailey Compliance Update
As you will be aware the Financial Services Authority ceased to be and the Financial Conduct Authority took over the regulation of financial advice firms on 01 April 2013.
The FSA issued PS13/05 last week which includes updated rules and transition arrangements. The policy statement itself is 88 pages but the ‘appendix (3)’ that accompanies it is a mere 1990 pages so you must excuse us for not as yet absorbing every word. The document can be seen here.