UK

FCA CEO Speech: UK Wholesale Finance Renaissance

FCA chief executive Nikhil Rathi delivered a speech on the future of UK wholesale finance, emphasizing the UK's role as a global trading hub and the FCA's commitment to market integrity and reform. The speech, delivered at the Goldman Sachs EMEA Head of Trading conference, highlighted opportunities for growth and the need for the UK financial sector to adapt at market speed.

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.

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.

Scotland Introduces Land Tax Relief for Investment Zones

The Scottish Ministers have introduced the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (Investment Zones Relief) (Scotland) Order 2026, effective February 26, 2026. This order modifies the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (Scotland) Act 2013 to provide relief for transactions related to land in designated investment zones.

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.