United Kingdom

Northern Ireland Workers' Compensation Payment Regulations Amended

The Department for Communities in Northern Ireland has amended the Pneumoconiosis, etc., (Workers’ Compensation) (Payment of Claims) Regulations. These amendments will come into operation on April 1, 2026, and apply to new claims made on or after that date.

Financial Services Act Exemption Amendment Order 2026

The UK Treasury has issued the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Exemption) (Amendment) Order 2026, effective March 27, 2026. This order amends the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Exemption) Order 2001 by adding several entities, including British Business Bank plc and its subsidiaries, to the list of persons exempt from regulated activities.

Financial Services and Markets Act 2023 Commencement Regulations

The UK Treasury has issued regulations bringing into force specific provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023. These regulations, effective January 1, 2027, revoke certain definitions within the EU's Capital Requirements Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 575/2013). This action is part of the UK's post-Brexit financial regulatory framework.

FCA and Independent Football Regulator Sign Memorandum of Understanding

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement outlines how the two organizations will collaborate to ensure effective regulation where football and financial services intersect.

FCA Launches New Regulatory Priorities Reports

The FCA has launched new Regulatory Priorities reports, starting with the insurance sector, to replace over 40 previous portfolio letters. These new reports aim to streamline communication and provide clearer, higher-level guidance for regulated firms.

FCA Proposes Action to Close Credit File Gaps for Borrowers

The FCA is consulting on proposals to require lenders to share credit information with all designated consumer credit reference agencies (CRAs). This aims to close gaps in consumers' credit files and ensure they more accurately reflect financial circumstances. The consultation closes on May 1, 2026.

CMA Advocates Non-Compete Clause Reform and Salary Threshold Ban

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has responded to a government working paper on reforming non-compete clauses in employment contracts. The CMA advocates for reforms, including a ban on non-competes below a salary threshold, to enhance labour market mobility.

FCA Stablecoin Regulatory Sandbox Testing

The FCA has selected four firms to participate in its regulatory sandbox to test stablecoin innovation. This initiative aims to gather real-world data to inform the development of future UK stablecoin regulations, with findings expected to shape final rules later in 2026.

Payments Forward Plan Published by Committee

The Payments Vision Delivery Committee, comprising HM Treasury, Bank of England, FCA, and PSR, has published the Payments Forward Plan. This plan outlines upcoming initiatives in retail and wholesale payments, including digital assets, to foster innovation and economic growth.

CMA Investigates ABF Acquisition of Hovis Merger

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the anticipated acquisition of Hovis Group Limited by Associated British Foods plc. The inquiry is currently in Phase 2, with a statutory deadline of June 24, 2026.