The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has ramped up enforcement actions against misleading financial promotions and unauthorized firms operating in the UK, according to a press release published on 28 December. This included imposing record-high financial penalties over the course of the ending year.

The increased regulatory scrutiny highlights the FCA’s tougher stance on protecting consumers and market integrity as part of its 3-year strategy launched in 2022.

FCA Crackdown on Misleading Adverts and Unauthorized Firms

As of December, the regulator has removed over 10,000 potentially misleading adverts and sent out 2,243 warnings about unauthorized firms and individuals. This is part of the FCA’s efforts to protect consumers from online financial scams and misinformation.

Additionally, between January and October 2023, the FCA cancelled 1,266 firms that failed to meet its minimum standards for authorization. This is double the number of firm cancellations compared to the previous year. Firms that do not meet authorization standards are prevented from operating in the regulated financial services industry.

The FCA also imposed record fines totaling £52,802,900 this year following investigations into enforcement cases. The fines aim to punish misconduct and message the industry about the consequences of breaking the rules.

“We know at the FCA our role is not just about regulating financial services, it’s about safeguarding futures, supporting innovation and informed risk-taking and maintaining a resilient financial ecosystem,” Nikhil Rathi, the Chief Executive of the FCA, stated.

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