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.



Abridged advice – how is it going so far?
Alistair MacDougall Compliance 2015, 2018, 2020, 2021, abridged, Drawdown, FCA, Pension, Pension Transfer, PI, transfer
Based on data and live visits to firms during the period from April 2015 to rule changes in 2018 and 2020, the FCA believed that far too high a proportion of clients were being recommended to transfer safeguarded benefits. This was predicated on the longstanding rule which stated: “… a firm should start by assuming […]