This episode unpacks the FCA’s proposals to simplify pensions and investment advice rules, including a more proportionate suitability framework, shorter reports, and more flexible ongoing reviews. It also covers proposed fees for 2026/27, operational incident and third-party reporting guidance, targeted support segmentation, and the FCA’s criticism of BSPS transfer advice.
Episodes (54)
Vicky and Rachel discuss the FCA and FOS proposals and guidance set out in the source text, including complaints handling reform, consumer harm and redress expectations, operational incident reporting, third-party arrangements, and wholesale market priorities.
The episode stays strictly within the provided text and keeps the conversation professional, with a light touch of sarcasm.
In this episode of B-Compliant Podcast, Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae unpack the latest FCA developments affecting advisers, wealth managers and compliance teams. The discussion covers the FCA’s pensions and mortgages regulatory priorities, the regulator’s findings on consumer understanding under Consumer Duty, and the practical risks highlighted in Vicky’s recent Money Marketing article on the “thin grey line” between factual explanation and complaints handling.
Expect a practical, professional roundup focused on what firms should be reviewing now, including governance, testing, record-keeping, vulnerable customer support, fair value, suitability and internal boundaries when handling historic advice conversations.
- FCA pensions supervisory priorities and the role of Consumer Duty
- Consumer understanding: testing, evidence and governance expectations
- Mortgage and second charge themes including advice quality, affordability and fees
- The compliance risks in straying from facts into complaints or claims activity
In this episode of the B-Compliant Podcast, Rachel and Vicky unpack a busy period of regulatory and policy developments for advisers and wealth managers. They start with the FCA’s consumer investment priorities for the year ahead, exploring expectations around clearer communications, stronger investment culture, governance, Consumer Duty outcomes and financial crime controls. They then turn to the FCA’s latest Quarterly Consultation Paper No. 51 and practical supervision topics, including the expanding CCR009 RegData return and recent changes to the FCA authorisation application process. Finally, they look at the opening of the authorisation gateway for targeted support and key messages from the 2026 Spring Statement and OBR forecasts on inheritance tax, including the growing importance of IHT receipts and the evolving treatment of pensions, agricultural and business property reliefs. Throughout, they consider what these developments mean for firms reviewing their compliance frameworks, client communications and regulatory reporting over the coming months.
In this episode of the B-Compliant Podcast, Rachel MacRae and Vicky Pearce unpack a recent FCA Raising Standards seminar for compliance consultants and explore what it signals for firms in the year ahead. They discuss the regulator’s growing engagement with compliance consultants, the shift away from Dear CEO letters toward published examples of good and poor practice, and why firms may need to be more proactive in monitoring FCA updates.
Rachel and Vicky then look at the new CCR009 regulatory return and the FCA’s Credit Information Market Study consultation, highlighting what credit‑permitted firms should be preparing for over the coming weeks and months. They also break down the FCA’s new sector-based Regulatory Priorities reports, focusing on the insurance report and its implications for advice firms involved in protection and insurance distribution, including links to Consumer Duty, fair value, and vulnerable customers.
Finally, the conversation turns to the FCA’s good and poor practice paper on SDR fund labelling, the four SDR label types, and why firms should revisit their pre‑contractual disclosures. They wrap up by pointing listeners to B‑Compliant’s latest blog on whether compliance is “beating the joy” out of advice and flag an upcoming industry survey designed to capture what firms really want from their compliance partners.
In this episode of the B-Compliant Podcast, Rachel MacRae and Vicky Pearce unpack a series of recent regulatory and supervisory developments, using only the FCA, HM Treasury, Upper Tribunal and FOS updates provided. They explore the FCA’s shift towards an outcomes-based approach under Consumer Duty, HM Treasury’s proposed reforms to the Appointed Representatives regime, and a significant Upper Tribunal decision upholding FCA bans and penalties over unsuitable pension investments. They also discuss the Financial Ombudsman Service’s warning about increasingly sophisticated financial scams and what this means for advisers. The conversation remains professional yet lightly sarcastic, highlighting the practical implications for firms seeking to evidence good consumer outcomes, maintain robust governance and protect clients in a fast-evolving risk landscape.
In this episode, Rachel and Vicky unpack themes from a recent B-Compliant bulletin. They discuss emerging trends in FCA applications, including longer waits for allocation but quicker processing once a case officer is assigned, and the growing role of technology and AI in document analysis. They explore the recent FT Adviser debate sparked by Anthony Villis on whether compliance and technology are beating the joy out of financial planning, and share why they think the compliance narrative needs a reset. They then spotlight the Personal Finance Societys call for new Education Champions to deliver free financial education workshops in UK schools, highlighting the value of financial education for young people.
In this episode, we unpack a series of recent UK regulatory developments affecting advisers and wealth managers. Rachel and Vicky discuss the FCA’s latest messages to insurers on innovation and consumer trust, explore the regulator’s practical expectations around fair value across financial services, and reflect on the lessons from the restrictions imposed on Advantage Wealth Management. They also look at the latest complaint statistics from the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Bank of England’s decision to hold the base rate at 3.75%, drawing out what these changes mean for firms’ Consumer Duty obligations, systems and controls, and day-to-day client communications.
Explore key findings from the FCA's market study on pure protection products, revealing gaps in consumer understanding despite high claims acceptance. Hear insights on distribution models under scrutiny and get updates on FCA initiatives including AI impact reviews and UCITS compliance extensions.
Discover how the FCA is streamlining its authorisation process while regulators grapple with AI challenges in financial services. Plus, learn vital lessons from a landmark pension misconduct enforcement ruling that underscores the importance of integrity in advisory roles.
This episode dives into the FCA's review of Consumer Duty among mutual life insurers, practical impacts of upcoming Financial Ombudsman Service changes, and key updates on levies and inheritance tax relief. Hear expert insights and real client stories highlighting the evolving compliance landscape for financial advisers and wealth managers.
This episode covers the latest pension transparency proposals with colour-coded ratings for UK savers, the FCA's extension of derivatives trading rules amid UK-EU tensions, and a key enforcement action underscoring regulators' strict compliance expectations.
This week, Vicky and Rachel walk through the FCA’s latest regulatory changes shaping the financial services landscape for 2025, from conduct rules and insurance reforms to the new requirements for Automatic Exchange of Information. Get the essentials on non-financial misconduct, targeted support for advisers, and how upcoming AEOI deadlines could impact your firm.
This episode explores the FCA's major consultations and proposals for 2026, including client categorisation changes, Handbook simplifications, pension market reforms, and a fresh look at provisional licences. Vicky and Rachel break down what these shifts mean for advisers and compliance professionals, with real-world notes on how to prepare for what's ahead.
This episode explores the FCA's sweeping changes to complaints reporting, the move to regulate ESG ratings providers, the spotlight on anti-money laundering supervisors, and the exciting new era of AI testing in financial services. Vicky and Rachel break down what these changes mean for compliance teams, advisers, and wealth managers aiming to keep pace with evolving regulatory expectations.
This episode breaks down the latest FCA fee consultation, highlights ongoing regulatory data challenges, and discusses a recent insider dealing criminal case. Vicky and Rachel unpack key changes and share actionable takeaways, including new support for AI governance.
This episode delves into the FCA's refreshed policy on statutory investigations, the PRA's new deposit protection limit, and the latest on AI compliance in finance. Vicky and Rachel break down key regulatory changes, practical responses, and how innovation can be managed securely.
This episode explores the FCA’s latest findings on firms’ risk controls, new directions for the UK mortgage market, and the regulator’s fresh partnership with Singapore to spark fintech and AI innovation. Vicky and Rachel unpack key examples and bring compliance to life with real stories and practical analysis.
This episode unpacks the Chancellor's tough pre-Budget speech and what it means for advisers, explores a recent case that highlights the risks of unfulfilled advice agreements, and dives into the ongoing push for greater financial inclusion and capability. Listen as Vicky and Rachel break down key regulatory updates with real-world examples.
This week, we discuss the FCA’s latest review on consolidation risks in wealth management, the first data protection prosecution under the DPA 2018, and new oversight for ESG ratings providers. Join Vicky and Rachel as they unpack key compliance themes and practical lessons for financial firms.
In this episode, Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae break down crucial findings from the newest FCA reviews. We spotlight gaps in client categorisation and AML frameworks, tackle changes in supervision for professional services, and discuss recent enforcement actions. Clear examples and practical tips bring regulatory challenges to life.
This episode unpacks the FCA's latest efforts to simplify capital rules, explores the path to fund tokenisation, and examines major takeaways from recent high-profile regulatory actions on data breaches and conflict of interest. We draw on real-world examples and guidance to help firms stay compliant in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment.
This episode puts the spotlight on the FCA’s transfer of MiFID rules, industry-wide claims management reforms, and the UK's upcoming move to T+1 settlement. Vicky and Rachel discuss what each change means for compliance, and how financial advisers can prepare for new operational and client-service realities.
This episode unpacks the FCA’s latest initiatives on Consumer Duty for wholesale firms, explores a real-world cyber crime approach targeting the BBC, and highlights the most relevant updates from FCA Handbook Notice 133. Stay sharp with actionable insights for compliance professionals.
This episode covers the FCA’s latest consultation on targeted support, updates on cancellation rights related to pensions, and a recent data protection breach case linked to financial fraud. Vicky and Rachel break down complex regulatory shifts and offer practical advice and real-world context for compliance professionals.
This episode dives into the FCA’s latest protection market study, unpacks ongoing issues around LISA penalties, and highlights lessons from legacy pension complaints. Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae break down what advisers need to know now to stay compliant and protect their clients’ interests.
This episode breaks down the FCA's new Handbook website, essential tips for smooth authorisation applications, and details from the latest quarterly consultation on reporting requirements. Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae guide listeners through practical updates, drawing on real-world experience in compliance.
This episode explores real-life financial failures affecting high-net-worth individuals, examines evolving scam threats, and offers guidance on regulatory preparedness ahead of the Autumn Budget. Vicky and Rachel use industry case studies and the latest compliance updates to help ensure your firm and clients stay protected.
In this episode, we break down the threat of FCA lookalike scams, key updates to regulatory reporting requirements, and latest FCA findings on pension transfer servicing standards. Tune in for actionable tips and real-world examples that can help protect your firm and improve customer outcomes.
This week, Vicky and Rachel dive into some concise but vital regulatory updates, from the FCA’s exploration of synthetic data to the growing impact of SuperSARs, current budget speculations, and crucial reminders for firms meeting compliance deadlines. Even in a quieter week for news, the topics on the table are essential for any firm’s compliance strategy.
This episode delves into the FCA’s latest findings on pension transfers, the Financial Ombudsman’s proposed case fee reforms, and new trends in whistleblowing. Vicky and Rachel break down the highlights and discuss practical strategies for compliance professionals.
This episode unpacks the FCA's move towards proactive redress in motor finance, rigorous oversight of off-channel communications, and new allowances for retail access to crypto ETNs. Vicky and Rachel break down the latest developments, offering clear insights and practical examples for compliance professionals.
This episode explores the FCA’s latest findings on digital customer journeys, data quality, and the non-negotiable importance of truthful regulator communication. Vicky and Rachel break down what it takes to stay compliant and deliver great outcomes for customers, supported by actionable insights and real-world examples.
Vicky and Rachel break down the latest UK regulatory changes impacting pensions and inheritance tax, mortgage contract transparency, and the evolving landscape of data sharing and cyber resilience. Get practical insights, real-world examples, and tips to protect your clients and firm amid shifting compliance demands.
This episode unpacks the FCA’s major consultation papers on SM&CR and redress reforms, plus new measures to speed up authorisations. Vicky and Rachel also discuss recent enforcement actions, including the Barclays fines for AML failures.
Explore the FCA’s latest guidance on PEPs, updates to mortgage lending rules, and how technology is shaping financial crime prevention. Vicky and Rachel break down key regulatory shifts, real-life case studies, and what it all means for compliance teams. Stay ahead with practical insights from the B-Compliant Podcast.
This episode dives into the FCA’s new proposals for targeted support and conduct rules, examining what they mean for financial firms and consumers. Vicky and Rachel unpack regulatory changes, compliance deadlines, and the evolving landscape of advice and accountability in UK financial services.
This episode dives into the FCA's latest proposals for mortgage regulation reform, exploring flexible lending criteria, later-life borrowing, and the impact of climate change on the mortgage market. Vicky and Rachel unpack key discussion points from DP25/2, with real-world examples and expert insights for advisers, lenders, and compliance professionals.
This episode dives into the FCA's recent insider trading conviction, discusses the most recent Bank of England's interest rate decision, and unpacks how the FCA's new strategic plan will shape the financial sector.
In this episode, we unpack the FCA’s review of retirement income advice, with a focus on client data, risk profiling, and sustainable withdrawal strategies. We also look at the new IAAT tool and what’s changing in the regulatory landscape.
This episode dives into the FCA's new data-led supervisory approach, stricter enforcement transparency, and the latest moves to tackle pension reforms and online scams. Vicky and Rachel break down what advice firms need to know, real risks from scam emails, and global efforts to curb illegal finfluencer activity.
This episode unpacks the FCA’s latest efforts in streamlining regulatory data, explores new cryptoasset consultation papers, and reviews looming pension scheme reforms.
Explore the FCA's major overhaul of complaints reporting, recent enforcement actions against Strowz Limited, and updates from the FSCS on levies and protection. Vicky and Rachel break down what these changes mean for firms and clients alike.
Explore the FCA's bold moves to simplify insurance rules, tackle cyber threats, and ease research payment regulations. Vicky and Rachel dive deep into these transformative changes impacting the financial world.
Explore the FCA's latest findings on smaller asset managers and understand the challenges in consumer risk management and market stability. Vicky Pearce and Rachel MacRae delve into high-risk investment promotions, the new FCA regulatory return, and a simplification of mortgage rules.
Explore the FCA's new AI Live Testing initiative, its implications for financial services, and the shifting landscape of crypto regulation. Join Vicky and Rachel as they unpack these developments and offer insights into compliance challenges and opportunities.
This episode examines the FCA's latest regulatory updates, including proposals to simplify capital rules under MIFIDPRU 3 and the My FCA platform to streamline compliance management. We also discuss reporting requirement updates and innovations in listing regimes, highlighting what these changes mean for firms and market participants.
This episode covers the FCA's latest moves, from proposals like CP25/8 to cut redundant reporting and CP25/9 to simplify consumer disclosures, to tough enforcement actions against firms like NatWest and Santander for AML violations. We examine the regulator's goals for reducing red tape, improving consumer understanding, and strengthening industry compliance in an evolving financial landscape.
This episode covers the FCA's strategic priorities for 2025/26, focusing on smarter regulation, consumer empowerment, responsible AI adoption, and tackling financial crime. Discover how innovations like the My FCA portal and mandatory identity verification at Companies House aim to simplify compliance and strengthen industry integrity. We also discuss the FCA's goals for positioning the UK as a global hub for sustainable finance.
This episode examines key compliance topics in financial services, including protecting children's data rights, preparing for changes to FSCS deposit limits, and addressing challenges posed by market volatility and complaints. We discuss strategies for firms to enhance transparency, accountability, and proactive compliance management. Stay informed with actionable insights on navigating the evolving regulatory environment.
This episode discusses the Spring Budget highlights, including ISA simplification and non-domiciled taxation reforms aimed at boosting UK competitiveness. We also cover the FCA's Consumer Duty updates and strategic goals for 2025-2030, along with HMRC’s digital compliance initiatives and challenges that advisors and SMEs face with fiscal drag and R&D tax relief consultations.
In this episode, Vicky and Rachel discuss aligning with the FCA's Consumer Duty, including actionable advice for competency benchmarks and fiduciary duties. They spotlight the Crispin Odey case on non-financial misconduct and its ethical implications, alongside the FCA's focus on policy transparency in the insurance market. Key questions and recent reports inform proactive strategies for compliance teams.
This episode covers the FCA's latest updates, including competency interviews, SMF application changes, and the retraction of the "name and shame" policy. The B-Compliant team shares insights on governance issues, liquidity risk management, and strategies for staying ahead in compliance. We also explore the regulatory transitions affecting businesses and their preparation challenges.
Regulatory compliance is fast-moving, ever-changing, and, let’s face it—sometimes overwhelming. That’s why we’re trying something new.
We know our clients need to stay ahead of the latest regulatory developments, but we also know you’re busy. So, we’re trialling an AI-powered podcast designed to deliver bite-sized updates straight to your ears.
Every episode will be packed with the latest industry news, compliance updates, and insights that matter to you. And while we might not be sitting behind the mic ourselves, this podcast will still sound familiar. That’s because we’re harnessing AI technology to replicate our voices—ensuring you get the same trusted expertise you’re used to, but in a way that fits seamlessly into your day.
Your hosts (virtually, at least!) are Vicky Pearce, Director and Founder of B-Compliant, and Rachel MacRae, Senior Consultant. We’ll be releasing regular updates over the next few months, and we’d love to hear your feedback.
So, whether you’re listening on your commute, grabbing a coffee, or between client meetings, let’s dive into the latest in compliance.