If You Think Compliance is Expensive – Try Non-Compliance!

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Compliance should be made as simple as possible because it is a complicated business area. This is true regardless of which sector or industry you work in. Compliance is so much more than just another business function. Adhering to whichever rules, regulations, laws and standards apply to your business is the ‘what’ of compliance. However, […]

Download CASS Resolution Pack

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Download our CASS Resolution Pack for just £65 (exc vat) today! Comply with the FCA’s Client Assets Sourcebook with our complete resolution pack template suite. Containing bespoke manuals for compliance with both CASS 10 and CASS 11, the pack contains Word and Excel formats for the RP. Click on the below images to see samples […]

How Do I Comply with the FCA Rules?

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Complying with the FCA rules is a twofold process. Firstly, you will need to have policies and controls in place to comply with the regulations before carrying out regulated activities. If you will be performing a regulated activity, you will need to apply for FCA authorisation. Secondly, if you are already authorised by the FCA, […]

Templates for a Compliance Manager

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Do you work in a compliance role? If so, it will be part of your job to draft and implement policies and procedures. The term ‘compliance’ covers a wealth of functions and activities. However, at its most basic level, it means there are standards, regulations or laws within your business that must be adhered to. […]

What is Whistleblowing?

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Whistleblowing is the direct action of disclosing or reporting wrongdoing within a company. It occurs when an individual suspects or has become aware that an illegal, unsafe or unethical practice or activity is taking place. The individual then shares this information with another person, authority or regulator. Legally, the act of whistleblowing is known as […]

What are the FCA Compliance Arrangements?

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If you are applying for FCA authorisation, you will definately have wondered “what are the FCA compliance arrangements?” These are referred to in the application form and supporting authorisation application guidance notes. In their reference to these compliance arrangements, the regulator advises that ‘when assessing your application, they need to be satisfied that you have […]

Do You Intend to Hold Client Money?

Do you intend to hold client money? If you are authorised by the FCA and the answer to this question is yes, read on! Regulated firms holding client money must comply with the rules set out in the Client Assets Sourcebook (CASS). These apply to firms who hold or control client money or safe custody […]

Carry Out a TCF Self-Assessment

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Why would you need to carry out a TCF self-assessment? If you are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) you will have obligations under the ‘Responsibilities to Customers‘ rules. Dependant on your business and permission type, you may also have similar obligations under the Consumer Duty rules. Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) remains one of […]

What are FCA Skills, Knowledge and Expertise?

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The FCA skills, knowledge and expertise is referenced under the compliance arrangements and procedures section of the authorisation application. It is also relevant to the FCAs training and competence requirements and the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR). Those applying for FCA authorisation will need to confirm that they have measures and controls in place […]

Example FCA Regulatory Business Plan

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This short article provides example FCA regulatory business plan criteria and headings. If you are going through an FCA authorisation application, you will need to submit your completed regulatory business plan during the application submission. The plan’s aim is to provide the regulator with information about the regulated activities you intend to carry on, evidence […]