Consultation · FCA · 6 Jun 2025
The Financial Conduct Authority proposes consequential amendments to SUP 6.4 to align with section 415AA of FSMA, deleting guidance stating that enforcement powers do not apply to formerly authorised firms and removing presumptions against permission cancellation. The document also proposes decommissioning the REP022 and RIA Complaints returns, reducing REP009 reporting frequency to annually, and removing nil return requirements for REP008. Additionally, it seeks to move Consumer Credit data return CCR007 to calendar year reporting and reduce assessment of value reporting for authorised fund managers.
Quarterly Consultation
CP25/16
No 48
June 2025
How to respond
We are asking for comments on this Consultation Paper (CP) by Date here. You can send them to us using the form on our website. Or in writing to:
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Financial Conduct Authority
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Telephone:
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Email:
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All our publications are available to download from www.fca.org.uk. Request an alternative format Please complete this form if you require this content in an alternative format. Or call 0207 066 1000 Sign up for our news and publications alerts See all our latest press releases, consultations and speeches. How to respond The Financial Conduct Authority invites comments on this consultation paper. Comments should reach us by 30 June 2025 for Chapters 3 and 5, 7 July 2025 for Chapter 4, and 14 July 2025 for Chapters 2, 6 and 7. Comments may be sent by electronic submission using the form on the FCA’s website. Alternatively, please send comments in writing to:
Chapter 2: Emma Velati, Enforcement Legal
Telephone: 020 7066 1290
Chapter 3: Dannina Fontaine, Reporting Policy
Telephone: 020 7066 2875
Chapter 4: Pierre Ostercamp, Crypto & Tech Policy
Telephone: 020 7066 2377
Chapter 5: Richard Kind, Post Trade Reporting & Enablement
Telephone: 020 7066 1165
Chapter 6: Barbara Kubis-Labiak/Andrew Jones, Consumer Finance Data Team
Telephone: 020 7066 6876/0576
Chapter 7: Mary Roughley, Asset Management and Fund Policy
Telephone: 020 7066 4527
If you are responding in writing to multiple chapters please send your comments to Lisa Ocero in the Handbook Team, who will pass your responses on as appropriate. All responses should be sent to:
Financial Conduct Authority
12 Endeavour Square
London E20 1JN
Email: cp25-16@fca.org.uk
All our publications are available to download from www.fca.org.uk. Request an alternative format Please complete this form if you require this content in an alternative format. Or call 0207 066 1000 Sign up for our news and publications alerts See all our latest press releases, consultations and speeches.
Disclaimer
When we make rules, we are required to publish:
Contents
Chapter 1 Overview Page 5
Chapter 2 Consequential amendments to SUP as a result of legislative
changes introduced in section 415AA of FSMA Page 6
Chapter 3 Data Decommissioning Page 9
Chapter 4 Lifting the ban on retail access to certain cryptoasset exchange
traded notes (cETNs) Page 16
Chapter 5 Amendments to the UK EMIR Trade Repository reporting
requirements Page 21
Chapter 6 Amendments to SUP 16 on the scheduling of Consumer Credit
data returns Page 27
Chapter 7 Assessment of Value Reporting Requirements Page 32
Annex 1 List of questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 37
Annex 2 Abbreviations used in this paper Page 39
Appendix 1 Consequential amendments to SUP as a result of legislative
changes introduced in section 415AA of FSMA
Appendix 2 Data Decommissioning
Appendix 3 Lifting the ban on retail access to certain cryptoasset
exchange traded notes (cETNs)
Appendix 4 Amendments to the UK EMIR Trade Repository reporting requirements
Appendix 5 Amendments to SUP 16 on the scheduling of Consumer
Credit data returns
Appendix 6 Assessment of Value Reporting Requirements
Chapter 1
Overview
Chapter No Proposed changes to Handbook
Consultation closing period
2 To make amendments to guidance in SUP 6.4 as a result of legislative changes introduced in section 415AA of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA). 5 weeks 3 Removing reporting requirements and notifications, amending the frequency of reporting for REP009 and removing nil return requirements for REP008. 3 weeks 4 To lift the ban on the retail sale, marketing and distribution of cryptoasset exchange traded notes (cETNs) where admitted to a UK recognised investment exchange (UK RIE), and categorise these cETNs as Restricted Mass Market Investments (RMMIs). 4 weeks 5 Amendments to the UK EMIR reporting requirements to trade repositories. 3 weeks 6 Amendments to SUP 16 and DISP (relating to the same change) to move the scheduling of existing Consumer Credit data Return CCR007 to Calendar Year reporting periods. 5 weeks 7 Reducing the assessment of value (AoV) reporting for authorised fund managers. 5 weeks
Chapter 2
Consequential amendments to SUP as a result of legislative changes introduced in
section 415AA of FSMA
Introduction
2.1 Section 415AA of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA), which came
into force on 29 August 2023, allows the FCA to take action against firms that are no longer authorised for misconduct that took place while they were authorised. The FCA can appoint investigators, issue a public censure, impose a financial penalty or require redress payments to victims of misconduct in relation to firms which become unauthorised after the misconduct or suspected misconduct has occurred. This applies to firms which became unauthorised on or after 20 July 2022.
2.2 As a result of these changes, we have reviewed Chapter 6 of the Supervision manual
(SUP) which provides guidance to firms with Part 4A permission that wish to cancel their
Part 4A permission and end their authorisation.
2.3 We set out below proposed minor consequential amendments to SUP 6 in light of the
legislative changes introduced in section 415AA of FSMA.
Summary of proposals
2.4 SUP 6.4 contains guidance on applications for cancellation of permission.
Amendment of SUP 6.4.23G and deletion of SUP 6.4.24G to SUP 6.4.26G
2.5 SUP 6.4.24G sets out that powers under FSMA to issue public censures, impose financial
penalties and require that restitution cannot be used against formerly authorised firms. With the introduction of section 415AA, this is no longer the case. Our proposal is therefore:
2.7 As a consequence of deleting SUP 6.4.24G and SUP 6.4.25G, we also propose to delete
SUP 6.4.26G, moving the cross-reference to the Decision Procedure and Penalties manual (DEPP) to SUP 6.4.23G. Retention of SUP 6.4.22G(5) and (6)
2.8 SUP 6.4.22G sets out factors that the FCA will take into account in deciding whether to
cancel a firm’s Part 4A permission. These include, at (5), whether the firm is currently being investigated or subject to continuing enforcement action and, at (6), whether there are any other matters which should be investigated first. The factors listed in SUP 6.4.22G are not exhaustive; rather, they are considered holistically and given due weight according to the relevant circumstances.
2.9 We propose to retain (5) and (6), notwithstanding the extension of powers under section
415AA. The extension provides a backstop for enforcement action in instances such as, but not limited to, where a firm’s misconduct comes to light after a firm’s authorisation has ceased. We do not intend to rely on these powers instead of the investigative and enforcement framework provided by FSMA for use against authorised firms.
2.10 With that in mind, we will retain the factors relating to investigation and enforcement
set out in SUP 6.4.22G as relevant considerations in the round when taking decisions about cancellation applications. This means that a firm may be kept authorised where an investigation has been or will be commenced, or where enforcement action is continuing (as is the case now). Conversely and for the avoidance of doubt, retention of these factors does not preclude us from granting cancellation in circumstances where a firm is or will be investigated. Amendment of SUP 6.4.22G (references to PRA)
2.11 SUP 6.4.22G refers to the ‘relevant regulator’, and the heading above SUP 6.4.23G refers
to the PRA. We no longer consider these necessary and propose amendments to refer only to the FCA. Information about the PRA’s approach to firm cancellation applications is on the PRA website: www.bankofengland.co.uk/prudential-regulation/authorisations/ cancelling-firm-permissions.
2.12 We have shared our proposed changes relating to firm cancellation applications with the
PRA, which has confirmed it has no objections. We note that other parts of SUP 6 also refer to the ‘relevant regulator’ and the PRA. It is under consideration whether they need to be amended, and if so, these will be consulted on in future as appropriate. Question 2.1: Do you agree with our changes proposed to SUP 6.4? Rule Review Framework
2.13 The FCA’s Rule Review Framework states that while we will generally monitor key metrics
of new rules, this is not a requirement where it would be disproportionate or where the new rule relates to a minor policy or rule change with minimal impact. Due to the nature of the changes proposed here, we are satisfied that the proposed amendments are exempt from the requirement to be monitored under the Framework.
Cost benefit analysis
2.14 Section 138I of FSMA requires us to publish a cost benefit analysis (CBA) when
proposing draft rules. Our proposals do not introduce any new rules or significant changes to existing rules. We have therefore not undertaken a CBA. Impact on mutual societies
2.15 We are satisfied that the proposals in this chapter would not have a significant impact on
mutual societies compared with other authorised persons.
Compatibility statement
2.16 We are required by section 1B of FSMA to act (so far as reasonably possible) in a
way which is compatible with our strategic objective, advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators’ Compliance Code and the Treasury's recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
2.17 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our objectives and
other legal obligations. Our proposals are unlikely to have a significant impact on the wider UK economy but by ensuring our Handbook is accurate and up to date, firms have certainty as to our processes and procedures, including the scope and applicability of our powers. Equality and diversity
2.18 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this
chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the
Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
2.19 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Chapter 3
Data Decommissioning
Introduction
3.1 The Transforming Data Collection (TDC) programme aims to improve our data
collection processes to streamline regulatory reporting and reduce unnecessary burden on firms. In Consultation Paper (CP) 25/8, we consulted on the removal of 3 other regulatory returns. Respondents were broadly supportive of our approach to eliminating reporting that is no longer required.
3.2 We have since identified further returns that are no longer useful in conducting
our supervisory work. We are now consulting on an additional 2 returns for full decommissioning, 1 for a reduction in reporting frequency and 1 where an alternative submission approach will be put in place. We have also identified areas of our Handbook which contain form layouts and instructions relating to outdated returns. We want to tidy up the Handbook by removing information about returns that firms are no longer required to complete. This will ensure the Handbook reflects the current reporting landscape, reducing complexity.
3.3 These proposals serve as a continuation of the commitment under Strategy to make
data collection more proportionate and targeted. They also align with the commitments outlined in Feedback Statement (FS) 25/2, which set out areas for action and further plans for reviewing our requirements following the introduction of the Consumer Duty. This is an immediate step to simplify our requirements on firms and reduce regulatory costs.
3.4 The aim is to ensure we are only collecting data necessary to meet our statutory
objectives. These changes will enable firms to focus their resources on high-value reporting obligations and reduce unnecessary burden.
3.5 We expect this to affect firms who are required to submit the following returns:
REP022 – 11,200 firms
Retail Investment Advice (RIA) Complaints – 5,100 firms
REP008 – 36,000 firms
REP009 – 150 firms
Summary of proposals
3.6 We propose to:
decommission REP022 (General Insurance Pricing Attestation) and RIA
Complaints;
reduce the frequency of reporting for REP009 (Consumer Buy-To-Let Mortgage
Aggregated Data); and
remove the requirement to submit nil returns for REP008 (Notification of
Disciplinary Action relating to conduct rules staff (other than SMF managers)). REP022 – General Insurance Pricing Attestation
3.7 We published our final report on our insurance pricing practices market study in
September 2020. This was followed by the publication of CP20/19, Policy Statement (PS) 21/5 (and the amendment to the rules in PS21/11) which set out the final rules designed to make general insurance markets work better for consumers. These rules came into effect on 1 January 2022.
3.8 ICOBS 6B.2.60R requires firms to provide an attestation about their compliance with
the rules published in PS21/5 and PS21/11, including confirmation that their pricing approach is not discriminating against customers of longer tenure. We have used firms’ attestations to inform our supervision of their implementation of the pricing rules. But, as these pricing rules have been in force for several years, we consider that firms should have properly established their processes to comply with these requirements. Also, firms remain subject to the wider regulatory framework which requires them to ensure they are complying with these rules and notify us if not.
3.9 We consider that this means the attestation reporting requirements via REP022 are
no longer an essential way to monitor firms’ compliance and so we propose to remove these requirements and decommission the REP022 return. Firms will still need to be able to demonstrate how they are complying with the pricing rules. This will include the need for relevant senior management of these firms to take accountability for ensuring their firms’ regulatory compliance with our rules (including where this is necessary to meet obligations under the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR)). We consider that this continues to provide a robust framework for holding firms (and relevant individuals) accountable if we see any concerns with how they are meeting ICOBS 6B.
3.10 In PS21/11, we introduced a notification requirement in SUP 16.28.9R(5) for insurance
intermediaries to notify us in relation to commission‑rebating. This was intended to give us greater insight into the extent of commission rebating in the market and monitor the pricing rules. We are now proposing to delete this notification requirement. The rules have been in place for several years and, while this data has been useful to inform our understanding of the market and how firms were complying with our rules, we consider that the benefits of obtaining this notification in future are limited and it is no longer a necessary step for us to monitor the market. RIA Complaints
3.11 The RIA Complaints Return is completed by firms that provide retail investment advice.
It captures information about complaints made against individual advisers, including the number of complaints received, the nature and cause of each complaint, the outcomes and any redress paid. This return is submitted every 6 months, and the requirement is listed under DISP 1.10 in the Handbook.
3.12 We introduced the adviser reporting requirements to give us visibility of advisers’
complaint history. While it achieves this purpose, it requires adviser firms to report complaints which are also reported in the DISP 1 Annex 1 return. We want to remove the duplication of effort required from firms in reporting complaints data at both the individual adviser and firm level.
3.13 We have recently consulted more widely on complaints reporting in CP25/13 (Improving
the complaints reporting process). This proposes improvements to the firm-level data we collect. The removal of the RIA return will not alter the requirements for firms to notify us of significant rule breaches or serious misconduct by employees. REP009 – Consumer Buy-To-Let Mortgage Aggregated Data
3.14 Under Part 3 of the Mortgage Credit Directive Order 2015 (MCDO), we were given
powers to supervise and – where appropriate – take action against firms carrying out consumer buy-to-let (CBTL) activity. In PS15/11, we set out how we would collect data from firms engaged in CBTL business in order to inform our supervisory approach. PS15/11 requires firms to report data on CBTL mortgage contracts on a quarterly basis, via REP009, including details of loan volumes, arrears, repossessions and complaints. Firms are given 30 business days to complete their REP009 submissions after the end of each calendar quarter.
3.15 Following a review of our data collection approach, we have determined that moving
to an annual reporting cycle would still enable us to meet our statutory obligations of ensuring firm compliance with the MCDO. The proposed change would align REP009 submissions with the calendar year (January to December). This adjustment reflects our commitment to proportionate regulation and to ensure we collect only the information that is required.
3.16 We want to ensure that any changes we make are beneficial for firms. So, we are
keen to understand whether firms think there is any advantage in moving to an annual reporting cycle for REP009. We believe that the cost savings outlined in our cost-benefit analysis (CBA) and the overall reduction in firm burden outweigh the adjustments to firm schedules.
3.17 We also propose to amend the layout of the data collection to reflect that it will be
annual.
REP008 – Notification of Disciplinary Action relating to conduct rules staff (other than SMF managers)
3.18 The SM&CR introduced an annual reporting requirement, REP008. REP008 requires
firms to report whether they have taken disciplinary action against employees who are not senior managers for breaches of the Conduct Rules and, if so, the details of the breaches. The obligation to report such breaches is outlined in section 64C of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA).
3.19 Currently, firms must submit REP008 annually even if there have been no Conduct
Rule breaches resulting in disciplinary action. Firms that fail to submit REP008 by the reporting deadline are charged a late submission administrative fee.
3.20 We have determined that nil return submissions do not provide additional regulatory
value to our supervision of these firms. So, we are proposing a flexible approach to REP008 submissions. Under our proposals, firms in scope would continue to see REP008 in RegData. However, if the firm had no information to declare, they would not need to submit it. Instead, firms would submit the necessary information only when they had breaches to declare, or when they had follow-up notifications to previous submissions.
3.21 As we no longer expect to receive nil submissions, we propose to permanently cease
applying the late return administrative fee to this return. This approach ensures that firms remain compliant with FSMA rules, while reducing administrative burden.
3.22 If our proposals are made final, we will communicate with firms ahead of the October
reporting deadline via our usual channels to remind firms we would not be expecting them to submit a nil return.
3.23 If our nil returns proposal made final and firms fail to submit when they have information
to declare, we may re-consider the ‘nil returns’ approach set out in this chapter. We will monitor this through comparison with historical submission rates. If successful, we will review other regulatory returns with nil return submissions.
3.24 We are also consulting on changing the reporting period for this data, for limited
permission consumer credit firms. We would be interested in firm views on whether the reporting period should be based on a calendar year (in line with the proposal set out in
Chapter 6 of this QCP (Amendments to SUP 16 on the scheduling of Consumer Credit
data returns)) or remain aligned to their accounting reference date. Our approach to these data collections while we consult
3.25 We want to ensure we take a fair and pragmatic approach to data collection while we
consult on the changes set out in this chapter.
3.26 Firms will continue to see REP022, RIA Complaints and REP008 scheduled on RegData
during the consultation period. However, we will not chase firms that fail to submit these, and firms can choose not to submit them. We will not expect firms to submit REP008 unless they have a breach to declare. We will also waive the associated late return administrative fee.
3.27 This approach only applies to the data collections identified in this QCP chapter while we
consult and consider the responses to the consultation. Should we decide not to delete or amend any of the relevant returns, this approach will cease and we will communicate this to firms.
3.28 There will be no changes to the REP009 reporting schedule on RegData during the
consultation period; we expect firms to continue to submit this return as usual.
Prudent valuation adjustment return
3.29 The requirement to submit this return was removed in 2022 when the Prudential
sourcebook for MiFID Investment Firms was introduced. We now propose to remove the related form layout and instructions from SUP 16 Annex 31A and SUP 16 Annex 31B, respectively. This supports our aim to simplify the Handbook. Impact of the proposals on consumers
3.30 The proposals will have no direct impact on consumers. These provisions relate solely
to internal reporting processes and do not affect the products, services or protections provided by firms. The changes focus on eliminating outdated instructions that no longer serve a practical regulatory purpose, ensuring firms’ reporting processes remain efficient and aligned with current requirements.
3.31 The proposals do not alter the standards or expectations for how firms operate in the
marketplace. Removing these sections simply clarifies their reporting responsibilities. Impact of the proposals on firms
3.32 We expect this to have a net benefit on firms. See the CBA for further detail.
Question 3.1: Do you agree with the proposed decommission of REP022? If not, please explain why. Question 3.2: Do you agree with the proposed decommission of RIA Complaints? If not, please explain why. Question 3.3: Do you agree with changing the submission process for REP008 to no longer submit nil returns? If not, please explain why. Question 3.4: Do you agree with removing the late administration fee for REP008? If not, please explain why. Question 3.5: Do you agree with the reduction in frequency of REP009? If not, please explain why. Question 3.6: Do you agree with removing the form layout and instructions for the Prudential Valuation return to reduce the length of the Handbook?
Rule Review Framework
3.33 The FCA’s Rule Review Framework states that while we will generally monitor key metrics
of new rules, this is not a requirement where it would be disproportionate or where the new rule relates to a minor policy or rule change with minimal impact. Due to the nature of the changes proposed here, we are satisfied that the proposed amendments are exempt from the requirement to be monitored under the Framework. Cost benefit analysis
3.34 Our proposals do not add any regulatory reporting requirements. Rather, we are
proposing firms complete fewer data submissions than they currently do. Therefore, we believe this intervention will not result in a material increase in firm costs for sending regulatory data. Instead, the firms will benefit from savings on the ongoing reporting costs.
3.35 We have produced the CBA by considering at a high-level the costs to a firm of
submitting the returns in 2024. We consider that conducting a more detailed analysis would not be a proportionate use of our resources.
3.36 We have projected the cost savings for firms by relying on the annual cost of reporting
for a single firm based on the information in the original consultation papers that introduced each return. These are:
Compatibility statement
3.41 When consulting on new rules, we are required by section 138I(2) of FSMA to explain why
we believe that making the proposed rules is consistent with our strategic objective and advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators’ Compliance Code and the Treasury's recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
3.42 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our objectives
and other legal obligations. Our proposals are compatible with our secondary growth objective in that they seek to streamline and simplify our requirements on firms and ensure our approach to regulation is proportionate. Equality and diversity
3.43 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this
chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the
Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
3.44 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Chapter 4
Lifting the ban on retail access to certain cryptoasset exchange traded notes (cETNs) Introduction
4.1 On 6 January 2021, we prohibited the sale, marketing and distribution of derivatives
and exchange traded notes (ETNs) referencing certain types of cryptoassets to retail consumers, in light of the risks posed by these products at the time.
4.2 Since then, cryptoasset markets have continued to evolve. We have also, so far as
possible, strengthened our regulatory remit for cryptoassets, including under the Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs) and the financial promotions regime in January 2020 and October 2023 respectively. In light of these developments, we updated our position on 11 March 2024, stating that we would not object to requests from Recognised Investment Exchanges (RIEs) to create a UK-listed market segment for cryptoasset exchange traded notes (cETNs), available only to professional investors. This decision reflected increased insight and data due to a longer period of trading history, enabling exchanges and professional investors to better assess whether cETNs meet their risk appetite.
4.3 Long-term confidence in cryptoassets depends on clear regulation to promote market
integrity and appropriate consumer protection. We have used our existing powers under the MLRs and the financial promotions regime to:
4.6 Following a review of the ban on retail access to cETNs, to ensure greater consistency
in the regulatory treatment across products and reflect the changing market landscape and regulatory framework, we believe it is now appropriate to consider lifting the ban. Similar to how cETNs traded on UK RIEs (UK RIE cETNs) are now available to professional investors, we are proposing to make these products available to retail consumers in the same way.
4.7 To ensure additional safeguards for UK retail consumers, we propose that these
products should be subject to our Conduct of Business sourcebook (COBS) and related financial promotion rules (including marketing restrictions such as risk warning requirements). Specifically, UK RIE cETNs should be categorised as restricted mass market investments (RMMIs), and as a result be subject to equivalent financial promotions rules as the underlying cryptoassets. Firms offering cETNs to retail consumers would also need to comply with the Consumer Duty.
4.8 In line with the principles for the compensation framework, we have considered the risk
that compensation for consumers who have chosen to engage in higher risk services or products may lead to poor incentives among consumers and firms. We also note that there is uncertainty on the risk to the wider market and potential exposure that could result for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) from firm failures involved in the UK RIE cETN market. We therefore do not propose to extend FSCS cover for UK consumers when investing in UK RIE cETNs. Risk warnings will ensure that consumers can make informed decisions about the protections available to them.
4.9 This consultation forms part of our wider work on the cryptoasset regulatory regime,
which we are developing in line with our published Crypto Roadmap. Under the Roadmap, we have invited feedback on the admissions and disclosures regime and the market abuse regime for cryptoassets (Discussion Paper (DP) 24/4) and on new regulated activities for cryptoassets (DP25/1). Recently, we consulted on our proposed rules for stablecoin issuance and custody of cryptoassets. Later this year, amongst other things, we will also consult on the proposed FSCS treatment under the new cryptoasset regime. Summary of proposals
4.10 To achieve the policy intention outlined in paragraphs 4.6-4.8 above, we propose to:
financial promotions rules, thereby ensuring the rules apply consistently across UK RIE cETNs. We will seek to make these changes as soon as possible and implement the change from 8 weeks after the final rules are made. The proposed changes to our Handbook are outlined in Appendix 3.
4.12 After these changes, firms are able to offer UK RIE cETNs to retail consumers provided
they have the appropriate Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) permissions and comply with applicable requirements including financial promotions rules. Question 4.1: Do you agree with our overall proposal (outlined above and in Appendix 3) to the lifting of the ban on retail access to cETNs which are admitted to UK RIEs, so that retail consumers may access UK RIE cETNs in the same way as professional investors? Please explain. Question 4.2: Do you agree that UK RIE cETNs should be subject to broadly the same financial promotions rules as qualifying cryptoassets and classified as restricted mass market investments? Rule Review Framework
4.13 The FCA’s Rule Review Framework states that while we will generally monitor key metrics
of new rules, this is not a requirement where it would be disproportionate or where the new rule relates to a minor policy or rule change with minimal impact. Due to the nature of the changes proposed here, we are satisfied that the proposed amendments are exempt from the requirement to be monitored under the Framework. Cost benefit analysis
4.14 Section 138I(2)(a) of FSMA requires the FCA to publish a cost benefit analysis (CBA)
when proposing draft rules. Section 138L(3) of FSMA provides that section 138I(2) (a) does not apply where we consider that there will be no increase in costs or that any increase will be of minimal significance. We believe the changes proposed in this
chapter are not likely to result in cost increases or that any increases will be of minimal
significance. Therefore, we believe that no CBA is required.
4.15 Our proposals would allow retail consumers access to UK RIE cETNs and enable certain
distributors to sell these products subject to having appropriate FSMA permissions and complying with applicable requirements including the marketing restrictions noted above. There may be small changes or costs incurred by existing trading venue operators if they need to amend the rules of existing market segments to indicate they are no longer restricted to professional investors. Product providers with existing listed cETNs may also need to consider supplementing or submitting a new prospectus to the FCA for UK RIE cETNs to be distributed to retail consumers.
4.16 These products will pose risks for investors linked to the performance of underlying
cryptoasset markets which remain, at present, largely unregulated, and are still prone to high volatility and financial crime risks. However, we consider that the marketing restrictions proposed should ensure retail consumers understand these risks. Also, given the existing retail access to alternative unregulated or higher-risk products providing exposure to cryptoassets, we do not think our proposals materially increase risks to retail consumers. Impact on mutual societies
4.17 Section 138K of FSMA requires us to state whether, in our opinion, our proposed rules
have a significantly different impact on authorised persons who are mutual societies, compared to other authorised persons. We do not expect the proposals in this chapter to have a significant impact on mutual societies. Compatibility statement
4.18 When consulting on new rules, we are required by section 138I(2) of FSMA to explain why
we believe that making the proposed rules is consistent with our strategic objective, advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators’ Compliance Code and the Treasury’s recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
4.19 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our objectives
and other legal obligations. The amendments advance our operational objectives of securing an appropriate degree of consumer protection and promoting effective competition in the interests of consumers. We consider that the requirements applicable to firms offering UK RIE cETNs to retail consumers, including under financial promotions rules and the Consumer Duty, will secure an appropriate degree of consumer protection. The proposals will promote effective competition in the interests of consumers by allowing firms to compete in retail markets offering cETNs and providing greater investor choice.
4.20 We are satisfied that any burdens or restrictions are proportionate to the expected
benefits given that requirements will apply to a market which is currently prohibited, and the proposal would achieve benefits of greater investor choice and competition in the market. We are also satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with the FCA’s secondary international competitiveness and growth objective, as the proposals align with regulatory and market developments in other jurisdictions and include regulatory safeguards to ensure growth is sustainable in the medium and long term.
4.21 Our proposals have taken into account the recommendations made by the Treasury in
the November 2024 remit letter and approach to cryptoasset regulation. We have also considered the commitment in our January 2025 letter to the Prime Minister to ensure
future consultations on consumer protection ask if the Consumer Duty is sufficient rather than new rules. We have not included a question on the Consumer Duty in this paper as we are not imposing new requirements on firms, but rather allowing certain firms to offer products where this was previously prohibited. Equality and diversity
4.22 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this
chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the
Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
4.23 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Chapter 5
Amendments to the UK EMIR Trade
Repository reporting requirements
Introduction
5.1 Under Article 9 of the UK version of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation
(UK EMIR), the FCA and the Bank of England (Bank) (together, 'the Authorities’) share supervisory responsibilities for the derivatives reporting obligation. The FCA is responsible for the reporting framework for counterparties in addition to trade repositories (TRs). The Bank is responsible for the framework for derivatives reporting as it applies to central counterparties (CCPs). Any subsequent references to ‘we', ‘us’ and ‘our’ in this chapter should be read in this context and based on this split of responsibilities.
5.2 Following the completion of the implementation of UK EMIR Refit in March 2025, in the
light of feedback from industry, we are consulting on making minor changes to the UK EMIR reporting regime to make it work more smoothly.
5.3 This chapter sets out the specific details of the changes to be made by the FCA, as
part of the joint proposals by the FCA and the Bank to amend our respective technical
standards:
Summary of proposals
5.6 In 2021, the Authorities published Consultation Paper (CP) 21/31, ‘Changes to reporting
requirements, procedures for data quality and registration of Trade Repositories under UK EMIR’. As part of the feedback to that consultation, respondents highlighted the benefits of introducing a new reportable field to permit the reporting of an ‘Execution agent’ where counterparties choose to make use of one.
5.7 As summarised in paragraph 1.36 in Policy Statement (PS) 23/2, we recognised these
benefits, and included the new field in the final rules:
5.13 This is to correct the oversight where the execution agent field was added to the trade
reporting requirements, but not the margin reporting requirements.
5.14 Proposal 2: Amendment of article 8(5) (Unique Transaction Identifier) of the EMIR
Technical Standards on the Standards, Formats, Frequency and Methods and Arrangements for Reporting 2023 to correct a cross-referencing error.
5.15 This is set out on page 4 of the draft Standards Instrument.
5.16 Subject to consultation feedback, we plan to implement the amendments on
1 December 2025.
Timing
5.17 The proposed addition of the execution agent field will require changes to firms’
reporting systems. However, it is a minor change to the reporting schema that will not impose a significant cost to implement. Additionally, firms that use execution agents are already collecting the data needed to report the information in the trade reporting files.
5.18 Consistent with the cadence of changes to the reporting regime the Authorities have
previously discussed with industry, we propose an effective date of 1 December 2025 for these amendments. We note this aligns with the change arising from PS24/14:
Improving transparency for bond and derivatives markets, facilitating a coordinated systems release. Implementation
5.19 We are proposing to amend the EMIR Technical Standards on the Minimum Details of
the Data to be Reported to Trade Repositories 2023 and EMIR Technical Standards on the Standards, Formats, Frequency and Methods and Arrangements for Reporting 2023 using the FCA’s powers under Articles 9(5) and 9(6) of UK EMIR and under Sections 137T, 138P, 138Q and 138S of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA).
5.20 The FCA may make a standards instrument if it has been approved by HM Treasury.
Before submitting a standards instrument to HM Treasury for approval, we are required to publish a draft of the proposed technical standards accompanied by an explanation of our reasons for believing that making the proposed technical standards is compatible with our objectives and a cost benefit analysis.
5.21 We have offered pre-consultation to the appropriate statutory panels in advance of this
consultation and have been directly engaging with the industry bodies and firms most affected by the proposals.
5.22 We must also consult with both the Bank and the PRA pursuant to Section 138P(4) of
FSMA ahead of making the standards instrument.
Question 5.1: Do you agree with the proposed addition of Field 30 (Execution agent) to Table 3 of the Annexes of each technical standard? If not, please provide your rationale.
Question 5.2: Do you agree with the implementation date of 1 December 2025? Question 5.3: Do you have any other comments on the proposals set out in this chapter? Feedback and next steps
5.23 We welcome feedback on the questions set out above, which are based on the
proposals in this consultation by 30 June 2025.
Impact on mutual societies
5.29 Sections 138K and 138S(2)(h) of FSMA requires us to state whether, in our opinion,
our proposed technical standards have a significantly different impact on authorised persons who are mutual societies, compared to other authorised persons. We do not expect the proposals in this chapter to have a significant impact on mutual societies. Compatibility statement
5.30 When consulting on new technical standards, we are required by section 138I(2) and
138S(2)(h) of FSMA to explain why we believe that making the proposed technical standards is consistent with our strategic objective, advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators’ Compliance Code and the Treasury’s recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
5.31 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our objectives and
other legal obligations. We have also had regard to the recommendations made by the Treasury in the November 2024 remit letter. The proposed changes will support firms in providing accurate data to us by enhancing the clarity of the reporting regimes. In turn, this will allow more effective and efficient firms’ supervision by making it easier for the FCA to identify emerging potential risks. This will help us advance our strategic objective of ensuring relevant markets function well and our operational objective of enhancing the integrity of the UK financial system through increased transparency.
5.32 We are also satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with the FCA’s
secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. The changes are expected to impose minimal costs on firms and do not affect firms’ incentives or ability to compete in the market.
5.33 We have considered the regulatory principle under s.3B FSMA that a burden or
restriction which is imposed on a person, or on the carrying on of an activity, should be proportionate to the benefits, considered in general terms, which are expected to result from the imposition of that burden or restriction. The addition of the execution agent reporting field in Table 3 will remove the need for a workaround by reporting entities, thereby reducing the overall burden of reporting.
5.34 We consider that these proposals do not contradict our need to contribute towards
achieving compliance by the Secretary of State with section 1 of the Climate Change Act 2008 (UK net zero emissions target) and section 5 of the Environment Act 2021 (Environmental targets).
Equality and diversity
5.35 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
5.36 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Chapter 6
Amendments to SUP 16 on the scheduling of Consumer Credit data returns Introduction
6.1 At present, firms which conduct limited permission consumer credit activities are
required to submit an annual data return (CCR007) in line with their Accounting Reference Date.
6.2 In Policy Statement (PS) 25/3, we confirmed the introduction of a new CCR009 return,
which is expected to be provided on a calendar year basis. Limited permission firms in scope of CCR009 will be required to submit this return in addition to CCR007.
6.3 Limited permission firms are only permitted to carry out specific credit-related
activities, so are subject to fewer threshold conditions (our minimum standards) than other firms.
6.4 In order to streamline reporting for limited permission firms going forward, we propose
to amend the scheduling rules to align the submission of existing returns to calendar year, meaning affected firms will submit both returns at the same time. We believe this will reduce the burden on these firms from regulatory reporting requirements. Summary of proposals
6.5 When designing and consulting on the new CCR009 return, the proposal for firms to
provide data based on a calendar year received positive feedback. Not only does this provide significant benefits to the FCA, in terms of the value we are able to get from consistently reported data, but industry suggested it is better aligned with how they collect and report on these activities internally.
6.6 The new CCR009 return forms part of a wider review of consumer credit data and we
anticipate introducing another return covering the remaining consumer credit activities of lending, consumer hire, debt collection and debt administration. We expect this phase to also align to calendar year reporting, and once completed, we will be able to turn off 4 of the remaining CCR returns.
6.7 These further changes would remove any dual reporting requirements on firms.
However, we have decided to delay the introduction of any further returns in order to ensure any burden on firms is proportionate and to assess the value and impact of these changes.
6.8 This change in the timing of the work means that for an interim period, limited
permission firms in scope of CCR009 will have to submit data to us on relevant activities across 2 returns; CCR007 and CCR009. While the information in both returns is important, the scheduling of these returns means that CCR007 is currently required to be submitted following a firm’s accounting year end while CCR009 is required to be submitted following the calendar year end.
6.9 To minimise the impact of the changes to the returns, we are proposing to amend the
scheduling of the CCR007 return to align with the new calendar year reporting, including the requirements for publishing complaints for limited permission firms as set out in the Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook (DISP). This will mean that for those firms, the reporting period and due date of the submissions will be the same for both returns. Firm population
6.10 This change would impact 16,500 limited permission firms who are currently scheduled
CCR007. Of these firms, 900 are not in scope of CCR009.
6.11 There are an additional 10,100 firms in scope of CCR009 who are not limited permission
firms and do not submit CCR007. This change will not affect these firms. Timing of changes
6.12 This change would not impact any submissions due in 2025, which should continue to be
reported as expected. For any submission that relates to an accounting year which ends in 2026 and any subsequent years going forward, the submission would be due following the end of the calendar year. The changes will come into force from 1 January 2026. Reporting periods
6.13 While we propose that the reporting period for CCR007 is to be aligned with the
calendar year, 2 of the data elements would continue to be reported in relation to a firm’s accounting reference date:
Alternative options
6.15 We considered whether we should make this change for all firms in scope of CCR009
(including credit brokers and debt management firms which do not hold limited permission) or all consumer credit returns impacted by this and future changes (CCR002, CCR003 and CCR006).
6.16 While we anticipate the returns for these activities moving to calendar year in the future,
the benefits of changing all the returns now are not clear and would only be short term until the returns are completely decommissioned.
6.17 Changing the schedule for CCR002 would potentially be beneficial for some firms but
consumer credit firms which do not hold limited permission are already required to submit other CCR returns, including CCR001 which will continue to be based on a firm’s accounting year. There are also a large number of consumer credit firms which do not hold limited permission and in addition hold permission for non-credit-related regulated activities, which are required to submit other returns due at various times throughout the year. For these reasons the benefits of any change would be diminished. Question 6.1: Do you agree with the proposal to amend the scheduling requirements for CCR007 to align with the calendar year? Question 6.2: Do you agree that this change should only be for limited permission firms submitting CCR007? If not, what do you think the scope of the change should be? Question 6.3: What do you expect the impact of these changes on your firm to be? Rule Review Framework
6.18 The FCA’s Rule Review Framework states that while we will generally monitor key metrics
of new rules, this is not a requirement where it would be disproportionate or where the new rule relates to a minor policy or rule change with minimal impact. Due to the nature of the changes proposed here, we are satisfied that the proposed amendments are exempt from the requirement to be monitored under the Framework. Cost benefit analysis
6.19 Section 138I of FSMA requires us to perform a cost benefit analysis (CBA) of our proposed
requirements and to publish the results, unless an exemption applies.
6.20 We expect firms to incur no, or minimal, additional costs as a result of these proposals,
as the reporting frequency will remain the same as under our current rules, and only the submission date is changing. As such, we have not conducted a CBA in accordance with the exemption under section 138L(3) of FSMA.
Impact on mutual societies
6.21 The FCA does not expect the proposals in this paper to have a significantly different
impact on mutual societies. The extent to which our proposed rules will have an impact on mutual societies will depend on which credit-related regulated activities they carry on (if any). Compatibility statement
6.22 When consulting on new rules, we are required by section 138I(2) of FSMA to explain why
we believe that making the proposed rules is consistent with our strategic objective, advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators' Compliance Code and the Treasury's recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
6.23 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our objectives
and other legal obligations. Our proposed amendments will help us meet our strategic objective of ensuring that the relevant markets function well, by allowing us to more effectively monitor compliance with regulatory requirements and identify risks in the consumer credit market.
6.24 Our proposals will also advance our operational objectives. Receiving data based on a
calendar year, supports us to protect and enhance market integrity by allowing us to make quicker and more effective decisions ensuring the market is functioning well while also promoting competition. It will also contribute to increased consumer protection from reliable and consistent data collection as we are better enabled to monitor the market.
6.25 Our proposals are also compatible with our secondary international competitiveness
and growth objective in that they contribute to helping us promote confidence in this market and ensure our ‘new data return’ is implemented in an efficient and proportionate way for businesses.
6.26 We are making these amendments in a way that is transparent, accountable,
proportionate, consistent and targeted. This complies with our obligations under the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006 including the framework under the Regulators’ Compliance Code. Equality and diversity
6.27 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this
chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the
Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
6.28 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Chapter 7
Assessment of Value Reporting
Requirements
Introduction
7.1 In July 2024, we published a Call for Input to understand how we could simplify our
requirements following the introduction of our outcomes-focused Consumer Duty (the Duty). We received 172 responses from a wide range of stakeholders and held a series of meetings, roundtables and events.
7.2 Several stakeholders pointed out that the assessment of value (AoV) rules in the
Collective Investment Schemes sourcebook (COLL) go further than the requirements under the price and value outcome of the Duty. They suggested that this creates an unlevel playing field between firms that comply with the AoV and those that comply with the Duty’s price and value requirements. In particular, respondents pointed to the prescriptive nature of the public reporting element of the AoV rules. They argued that the costs of the detailed annual public reporting requirements outweigh the benefits. They noted that there is low investor engagement with the public reports.
7.3 We also received feedback that the overall AoV process and the associated governance
requirements have themselves driven change within the market and that there is value in maintaining them.
7.4 We therefore committed in Feedback Statement 25/2 that we would consult on
proposals to streamline the AoV annual reporting requirement.
Background to the AoV rules
7.5 The AoV rules originated from a 2016/17 competition market study of the asset
management sector that considered how asset managers compete to deliver value for both retail and institutional investors. We found that asset managers do not typically compete on price, particularly for retail active asset management services. We found that the pricing of segregated mandates which are typically sold to larger institutional investors tends to fall as the size of the mandate increases, potentially as a result of economies of scale. By contrast, retail funds did not reduce prices as the size of the fund increases, potentially indicating that fund managers did not pass on the benefits of economies of scale to retail investors.
7.6 We also found that there was considerable price clustering on the asset management
charge for retail funds. Although price clustering and broadly stable prices do not necessarily mean that prices are above their competitive level, we also found high levels of profitability, with average profit margins of 36% for the firms we sampled. Taken together, these factors suggested that price competition may not have been working as effectively as it could be.
7.7 In response to our findings, we introduced a remedy package to increase price
competition within the market and to improve the value for money that investors receive. As part of this package, we introduced rules requiring authorised fund managers (AFMs) to carry out an AoV at least annually and to report publicly on their conclusions. Rules in COLL 6.6.20R, COLL 8.5.17R and COLL 15.7.17R require an AFM to conduct an AoV for each scheme it manages at least annually. AFMs must consider at least:
are justified in the context of the overall value delivered by the scheme, and set out any remedial action they are taking in the face of poor value. We want to provide greater flexibility for firms over how they comply with our requirements, while maintaining high standards (including through the Duty) and reducing administrative costs.
7.14 We propose to maintain the rule allowing AFMs to publish the information required by
COLL 4.5.7R(8), COLL 8.3.5AR(5) and COLL 15.5.3R(5) in a composite report. While we are paring back the requirements on what must be included, AFMs will have discretion to include other AoV-related matters in their annual report, or a composite report, if they wish to.
7.15 Based on our experience supervising the market, we consider that the procedure
and governance requirements in COLL 6.6.20R, COLL 8.5.17AR and COLL 15.7.17R are sufficient in achieving the intended outcome of the AoV rules and ensuring that consumers are appropriately protected from poor value funds. We have found in our supervisory work that asset managers have embedded these processes. Our 2023 review of the processes AFMs use for AoVs for the funds they operate found that many firms have a good understanding of the rules and have significantly improved their AoV processes.
7.16 Other safeguards are also in place, including existing FCA rules requiring AFMs to act
in the best interests of their investors and to prevent undue costs being charged to the scheme or unit holders. These obligations should be overseen by the board of the AFM – the senior committee made up of the directors of the AFM. It is their role to set the overall direction of the firm, and to do so in a way that complies with our rules and considers the best interests of investors in the funds.
7.17 We believe that there is merit in keeping some level of disclosure in the annual report.
This will maintain accountability and provide information about the outcome of a fund’s AoV to industry participants, including investors, distributors and trade press. We consider that the brief summary of the AoV which we propose to require will achieve the intended outcome of the original public reporting requirement. The price and value outcome of The Duty has added a level of scrutiny of the value provided by products throughout the distribution chain. We are also aware of market solutions for information sharing, such as the European MiFID Template, which lessen reliance on regulatory reporting requirements.
7.18 In line with our proposed consumer composite investment framework, we think it is
proportionate to allow firms greater flexibility in terms of how to report. Beyond the prescribed disclosure, it will be for AFMs to decide how much information to include, providing scope for AFMs who may wish to include more information about the value the fund offers. We believe that this flexibility will also facilitate the effective flow of information between manufacturers and distributors as it pertains to the distributor’s consumer duty price and value requirements. AFMs will be able to tailor their information sharing to the needs of distributors, if they so wish.
7.19 As firms will continue to be required to undertake the full AoV under the rules in COLL,
and will continue to be required to produce an annual report, we consider that the cost of a requirement to include a brief disclosure relating to the AoV will be minimal as compared to the cost of no disclosure, and so it is proportionate considering the
benefits it achieves. We welcome feedback on this point in the consultation. We consider that removing the prescriptive requirements will lead to a significant cost saving for 149 firms with 3928 funds. We welcome feedback on these anticipated savings. Question 7.1: Do you agree with our proposal to replace COLL 4.5.7R(8), COLL 8.3.5A(5) and COLL 15.5.3R(5) with a requirement that AFMs must include in the annual report a summary of the AoV and a conclusion of the assessment as to whether the charges out of scheme property are justified in the context of the overall value delivered by the scheme, and set out any remedial actions being taken as a result of the conclusion of the assessment of value? Question 7.2: Do you agree with our assumption that reducing the level of disclosure in this way will lead to a significant cost saving for AFMs? Question 7.3: Do you agree that these proposals will facilitate the effective flow of information between manufacturers and distributors? Rule Review Framework
7.20 The FCA’s Rule Review Framework states that while we will generally monitor key metrics
of new rules, this is not a requirement where it would be disproportionate or where the new rule relates to a minor policy or rule change with minimal impact. Due to the nature of the changes proposed here, we are satisfied that the proposed amendments are exempt from the requirement to be monitored under the Framework. Cost benefit analysis
7.21 Section 138I(2) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) requires us to
publish a cost benefit analysis unless, in accordance with section 138L, we consider that there will be no increase in costs from the proposed amendments or that the increase will be of minimal significance.
7.22 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments do not increase costs to firms or
consumers, or that any increase will be of minimal significance, as the proposed amendments do not create any new obligations. They will have the general benefit of clarifying Handbook guidance and rules. Impact on mutual societies
7.23 Section 138K(2) of FSMA requires us to provide an opinion on whether the impact of
proposed rules on mutual societies is significantly different to the impact on other authorised persons. We are satisfied that the proposed changes in this chapter do
not have a significantly different impact on mutual societies compared with other authorised persons. Compatibility statement
7.24 When consulting on new rules, we are required by section 138I(2) of FSMA to explain why
we believe that making the proposed rules is consistent with our strategic objective and advances one or more of our operational objectives and (so far as reasonably possible) the secondary international competitiveness and growth objective. Further, we must promote effective competition when advancing our other operational objectives (section 1B(4) of FSMA), and have regard to the regulatory principles in section 3B of FSMA and the importance of taking action intended to minimise financial crime (section 1B(5)(b) of FSMA). We are also required to have regard to the principles in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006, the Regulators’ Compliance Code and the Treasury’s recommendations on economic policy (section 1JA of FSMA).
7.25 We are satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with our strategic
objective and other legal obligations. The amendments advance our operational objectives of securing an appropriate degree of consumer protection and promoting effective competition in the interests of consumers, as the proposals will reduce the costs for firms without impacting consumer outcomes. We are satisfied that any burdens or restrictions are proportionate to the expected benefits. We are also satisfied that the proposed amendments are compatible with the FCA’s secondary international competitiveness and growth objective, as it will reduce costs for UK asset managers, making the UK more competitive. We have also considered the extent to which these amendments may be relevant to making a contribution to the Secretary of State’s compliance with the UK net zero emissions target and environmental targets, as required under section 3B(1)(c) of FSMA; we have not identified a particular contribution that may be made. Equality and diversity
7.26 We have considered the equality and diversity issues that may arise from the proposed
amendments. We have not identified any adverse impact that the proposals in this
chapter would have on any of the groups with protected characteristics under the
Equality Act 2010 (ie, age, disability, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment). In Northern Ireland, the Equality Act is not enacted but other anti-discrimination legislation applies.
7.27 We will continue to consider the equality and diversity implications of the proposals
Annex 1
List of questions
Question 2.1: Do you agree with our changes proposed to SUP 6.4?
Question 3.1: Do you agree with the proposed decommission of REP022? If not, please explain why. Question 3.2: Do you agree with the proposed decommission of RIA Complaints? If not, please explain why. Question 3.3: Do you agree with changing the submission process for REP008 to no longer submit nil returns? If not, please explain why. Question 3.4: Do you agree with removing the late administration fee for REP008? If not, please explain why. Question 3.5: Do you agree with the reduction in frequency of REP009? If not, please explain why. Question 3.6: Do you agree with removing the form layout and instructions for the Prudential Valuation return to reduce the length of the Handbook? Question 4.1: Do you agree with our overall proposal (outlined above and in Appendix 3) to the lifting of the ban on retail access to cETNs which are admitted to UK RIEs, so that retail consumers may access UK RIE cETNs in the same way as professional investors? Please explain. Question 4.2: Do you agree that UK RIE cETNs should be subject to broadly the same financial promotions rules as qualifying cryptoassets and classified as restricted mass market investments? Question 5.1: Do you agree with the proposed addition of Field 30 (Execution agent) to Table 3 of the Annexes of each technical standard? If not, please provide your rationale. Question 5.2: Do you agree with the implementation date of 1 December 2025? Question 5.3: Do you have any other comments on the proposals set out in this chapter? Question 6.1: Do you agree with the proposal to amend the scheduling requirements for CCR007 to align with the calendar year?
Question 6.2: Do you agree that this change should only be for limited permission firms submitting CCR007? If not, what do you think the scope of the change should be? Question 6.3: What do you expect the impact of these changes on your firm to be? Question 7.1: Do you agree with our proposal to replace COLL 4.5.7R(8), COLL 8.3.5A(5) and COLL 15.5.3R(5) with a requirement that AFMs must include in the annual report a summary of the AoV and a conclusion of the assessment as to whether the charges out of scheme property are justified in the context of the overall value delivered by the scheme, and set out any remedial actions being taken as a result of the conclusion of the assessment of value? Question 7.2: Do you agree with our assumption that reducing the level of disclosure in this way will lead to a significant cost saving for AFMs? Question 7.3: Do you agree that these proposals will facilitate the effective flow of information between manufacturers and distributors?
Annex 2
Abbreviations used in this paper
Abbreviation Description
AFM Authorised fund manager
AoV Assessment of value
The Authorities The FCA and the Bank of England CBA Cost benefit analysis CBTL Consumer buy-to-let CCPs Central counterparties CCR Consumer Credit Returns cETN Cryptoasset exchange traded note COBS Conduct of Business sourcebook COLL Collective Investment Schemes sourcebook CP Consultation Paper DEPP Decision Procedure and Penalties manual DISP Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook DP Discussion Paper ETN Exchange traded note ETP Exchange traded product FIN Financial FS Feedback Statement FSA Financial Services Authority
Abbreviation Description
FSCS Financial Services Compensation Scheme
FSMA Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 IPRU-INV Interim Prudential sourcebook for Investment Business MCDO Mortgage Credit Directive Order 2015 MIF Markets in Financial Instruments Directive MiFID-PRU Prudential sourcebook for Markets in Financial Instruments Directive Investment Firms MLA Mortgage Lenders and Administrators MLRs Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 PRA Prudential Regulation Authority PS Policy Statement RAG Regulated activity group RIA Retail investment advice RIE Recognised Investment Exchange RMA Retail Mediation Activities RMMI Restricted mass market investment SM&CR Senior Management and Certification Regime SUP Supervision manual TDC Transforming Data Collection The Duty The Consumer Duty The Regulators The FCA and the PRA TRs Trade Repositories UK EMIR The UK version of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation
Appendix 1
Consequential amendments to SUP as a result of legislative changes introduced in
section 415AA of FSMA
FCA 2025/XX
SUPERVISION MANUAL (AMENDMENT) INSTRUMENT 2025 Powers exercised A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument under section 139A (Power of the FCA to give guidance) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”). Commencement B. This instrument comes into force on [date]. Amendments to the Handbook
C. The Supervision manual (SUP) is amended in accordance with the Annex to this
instrument.
Citation
D. This instrument may be cited as the Supervision Manual (Amendment) Instrument 2025. [date]
FCA 2025/XX
Annex
Amendments to the Supervision manual (SUP)
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless otherwise stated. 6 Applications to vary and cancel Part 4A permission and to impose, vary or cancel requirements …
6.4 Applications for cancellation of permission
…
When will the relevant regulator grant an application for cancellation of permission? …
6.4.22 G In deciding whether to cancel a firm’s Part 4A permission, the relevant
regulator FCA will take into account all relevant factors in relation to business carried on under that permission, including whether:
(1) there are unresolved, unsatisfied or undischarged complaints against the firm from any of its customers; (2) the firm has complied with CASS 5.5.80R and CASS 7.11.34R (Client money: discharge of fiduciary duty) and CASS 7.11.50R (Client money: allocated but unclaimed client money) if it has ceased to hold client money; these rules apply to both repayment and transfer to a third party; (3) the firm has ceased to hold or control custody assets in accordance with instructions received from clients and COBS 6.1.7R or article 49 of the MiFID Org Regulation (see COBS 6.1ZA.9EU COBS 6.1ZA.9UK) (Information concerning safeguarding of designated investments belonging to clients and client money); (4) the firm has repaid all client deposits, if it is ceasing to carry on regulated activities including accepting deposits; (5) the relevant regulator or another regulator has commenced an investigation against the firm or continuing enforcement action against the firm; (6) there are any matters affecting the firm which should be investigated before a decision on whether the firm should have its Part 4A permission cancelled by the relevant regulator or be disciplined;
FCA 2025/XX
(7) the firm has unsettled or unexpired liabilities to consumers, for example, outstanding contracts (such as deposits or insurance liabilities); (8) the firm has settled all its debts to the appropriate regulator; and (9) the factors set out in SUP 6.4.19G apply. The FCA and the PRA enforcement and investigation powers against a former authorised person
6.4.23 G If an application for cancellation of a firm’s Part 4A permission has been
granted and a firm’s status as an authorised person has been withdrawn (see SUP 6.5) it will remain subject to certain investigative and enforcement powers as a former authorised person. These include:
…
(4) powers in Part XXVII of the Act (Offences) to prosecute offences under the Act and other specified provisions (see EG 12 (Prosecution of criminal offences)).; (5) powers to take disciplinary action against firms by publishing statements of misconduct under section 205(1) of the Act (Public censure) or imposing financial penalties under section 206(1) of the Act (Financial penalties) (see DEPP 6 (Penalties); and (6) the power to require firms to make restitution under section 384 of the Act (Power of FCA or PRA to require restitution).
6.4.24 G However, the following powers may not be used against former authorised
persons:
(1) powers to take disciplinary action against firms by publishing statements of misconduct under section 205 of the Act (Public censure) or imposing financial penalties under section 206(1) of the Act (Financial penalties); and (2) the power to require firms to make restitution under section 384 of the Act (Power of FCA or PRA to require restitution). [deleted]
6.4.25 G Consequently, the relevant regulator considers that it will have good reason
not to grant a firm’s application for cancellation of permission where:
(1) the FCA and/or the PRA proposes to exercise any of the powers described in SUP 6.4.24 G; or (2) the FCA and/or the PRA has already begun disciplinary and/or restitution proceedings against the firm by exercising either or both of these powers against the firm. [deleted]
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6.4.26 G The FCA’s use of those powers is outlined in DEPP 6 (Penalties). [deleted]
…
Appendix 2
Data Decommissioning
FCA 2025/XX
DATA DECOMMISSIONING (No 2) INSTRUMENT 2025
Powers exercised
A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument in the exercise of the powers and related provisions in or under:
(1) the following sections of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”):
(a) section 137A (The FCA’s general rules);
(b) section 137T (General supplementary powers); (c) section 139A (Power of the FCA to give guidance); and (d) paragraph 23 (Fees) of Part 3 (Penalties and fees) of Schedule 1ZA (The Financial Conduct Authority); and (2) the following articles of the Mortgage Credit Directive Order 2015:
(a) article 18 (Obligations of registered consumer buy-to-let mortgage firms); (b) article 21 (Monitoring and enforcement); and (c) article 22 (Guidance). B. The rule-making provisions listed above are specified for the purposes of section 138G(2) (Rule-making instruments) of the Act. Commencement
C. This instrument comes into force on [date].
Amendments to the Handbook
D. The modules of the FCA Handbook listed in column (1) below are amended in accordance with the Annexes to this instrument listed in column (2). (1) (2) Insurance: Conduct of Business sourcebook (ICOBS) Annex A Supervision manual (SUP) Annex B Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook (DISP) Annex C Citation E. This instrument may be cited as the Data Decommissioning (No 2) Instrument 2025. [date]
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Annex A
Amendments to the Insurance: Conduct of Business sourcebook (ICOBS) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless otherwise stated. 6B Home insurance and motor insurance pricing … 6B.2 Setting renewal prices … Attestation requirements 6B.2.60 R Every firm subject to the rules in this chapter must provide the attestation set out at (1) for the reporting period set out in (2) at the time set out in (3) by a person in (4) below. [deleted] (1) The attestation is that the firm:
(a) is and has been complying with the rules in this chapter throughout the reporting period; and (b) is satisfied that the pricing of its home insurance and motor insurance renewal business and related sales practices are consistent with the objectives of the rules as set out in ICOBS 6B.1.4G and does not discriminate against customers of longer tenure as set out in ICOBS 6B.2.39R, ICOBS 6B.2.47R and ICOBS 6B.2.48R. (2) The reporting period is the 12-month period beginning 1 January and ending 31 December. (3) The attestation must be provided annually, on or before 31 March in the year following the end of the reporting period. (4) The attestation must be provided by:
(a) a single person, who holds a senior management function in the firm; or (b) where a firm is not an SMCR firm, by a director of the firm. Format and method of submission of attestation
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6B.2.61 R The attestation must be submitted online through the appropriate systems accessible from the FCA’s website. [deleted] 6B.2.62 R The attestation will not be considered as submitted to the FCA unless it has been accepted by the relevant FCA system. [deleted] 6B.2.63 G If the FCA’s information technology systems fail and online submission is unavailable for 24 hours or more, the FCA will endeavour to publish a notice on its website confirming that online submission is unavailable and will confirm what methods of submission should be used instead. [deleted]
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Annex B
Amendments to the Supervision manual (SUP)
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless otherwise stated. 15 Notifications to the FCA …
15.11 Notification of COCON breaches and disciplinary action
…
Timing and form of notifications: conduct rules staff other than SMF managers
15.11.13 R (1) A firm must make any notifications required pursuant to section
64C of the Act relating to conduct rules staff other than SMF managers in accordance with SUP 15.11.13R to SUP 15.11.15R. … (5) If a firm (other than a credit union) has nothing to report under
section 64C of the Act and nothing to report under SUP
15.11.13R(4) for a particular reporting period, it must notify the FCA of that fact in accordance with SUP 15.11.13R to SUP 15.11.14R. [deleted] 15.11.13 A G … 15.11.13 B G If a firm has nothing to report under section 64C of the Act or SUP 15.11.13R(4) for a particular reporting period, there is no requirement to make a nil return and so the firm should not send a notification for that period. … 15.11.15 A R (1) If a firm to which SUP 15.11.14R applies fails to submit a completed notification under SUP 15.11.13R by the date on which it is due, in accordance with SUP 15.11.13R, the firm must pay an administrative fee of £250. [deleted] (2) The administrative fee in (1) does not apply if the firm is unable to submit a report in electronic format within the time required
FCA 2025/XX because of a systems failure of the kind described in SUP 15.11.14R(3). …
Annex
7R
Form H: Form for the notification of disciplinary action relating to conduct rules staff (other than SMF managers) in SMCR firms … … This section should be completed by a firm to:
(a) …
(b) make a follow up notification to update a notification that has been previously made by the firm in relation to (a); or. (c) confirm that there is nothing to be reported under (a) or (b) Is the firm making a nil return (see paragraph (c) of the introduction to this section)? YES NO If the firm has answered “Yes”, please go straight to Section 5. If the firm has answered “No”, please go to
Section 4.
…
A credit union is not required to make a nil return (see SUP 15.11). If a credit union firm has nothing to notify for a particular reporting period, it should not send a Form H to the FCA for that period. … 16 Reporting requirements
FCA 2025/XX
…
16.21 Reporting under the MCD Order for CBTL firms
…
Reporting requirement
16.21.4 D (1) A CBTL firm must submit a duly completed consumer buy-to-let
return to the FCA.
(2) The return referred to in (1) must be submitted:
(a) in the format set out in SUP 16 Annex 39AD; guidance notes for the completion of the return are set out in SUP 16
Annex 39BG;
(b) online through the appropriate systems accessible from the FCA’s website; and (c) within 30 business days following the end of the reporting period. (3) The reporting period is the four calendar quarters 12-month period beginning on 1 April January. …
16.28 Home insurance and motor insurance pricing reporting
…
Requirement to submit a pricing information report …
16.28.9 R Firms must comply with the following in relation to the table in SUP
16.28.8R.
…
(5) An insurance intermediary must notify the FCA if the firm forgoes commission or gives a cash or cash-equivalent incentive (within the meaning of ICOBS 6B.2.12R) on the gross price set by the insurer on either or both of more than 25% of the home insurance policies or more than 25% of the motor insurance policies sold by the firm in a reporting period. [deleted] …
FCA 2025/XX
SUP 16 Annex 31A (Prudent Valuation Return) and SUP 16 Annex 31B (Guidance notes for data items in SUP 16 Annex 31AR) are deleted in their entirety. The deleted text is not shown but the annexes are marked ‘deleted’, as shown below.
Annex
31AR
Prudent Valuation Return [deleted]
Annex
31BG
Guidance notes for data items in SUP 16 Annex 31AR [deleted] Amend the following as shown. …
Annex
39AD
Consumer buy-to-let return
…
SUP 16 Annex 39AD Consumer buy-to-let return CONSUMER BUY-TO-LET (CBTL) MORTGAGE AGGREGATED DATA RETURN … Arrears, repossessions and receivers … In the reporting period year In the reporting year to date CBTL repossessions Number of Receiver appointments on CBTL Number of CBTL properties under the control of a Receiver Complaints In the reporting period year In the reporting year to date Total CBTL complaints outstanding at reporting period start date CBTL complaints received CBTL complaints closed CBTL complaints upheld by firm Total redress paid on CBTL complaints (£)
FCA 2025/XX
Annex
39BG
Guidance notes for completion of consumer buy-to-let return in SUP 16
Annex 39AD
Outline guidance for firms completing the aggregated ‘consumer buy-tolet’ (CBTL) mortgage return We expect firms registered by us to carry out CBTL lending to report aggregated data to us on a quarterly basis, with reports scheduled in line with each calendar quarter annually, with each reporting period beginning on 1 January. We expect firms to report loans, and aspects relating to those loans, that meet the definition of a “consumer buy-to-let mortgage contract”, as defined in article 4 of the Mortgage Credit Directive Order (CBTL credit agreement in the Handbook). We expect firms to submit a nil return if they have no data to report. …
FCA 2025/XX
Annex C
Amendments to the Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook (DISP) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless otherwise stated. 1 Treating complainants fairly …
1.10 Complaints reporting rules
…
Information requirements
…
1.10.2A R (1) Twice a year a firm must provide the FCA with a complete report concerning complaints received from eligible complainants about matters relating to activities carried out by its employees when acting as retail investment advisers. The report must be set out in the format in DISP 1 Annex 1CR. [deleted] (2) DISP 1 Annex 1CR requires (for the relevant reporting period) information about:
(a) the total number of complaints received by the firm about matters relating to activities carried out by its employees when acting as retail investment advisers; (b) the total number of complaints closed by the firm about matters relating to activities carried out by its employees when acting as retail investment advisers; (c) the total number of complaints upheld by the firm about matters relating to activities carried out by its employees when acting as retail investment advisers; and (d) the total amount of redress paid in respect of complaints upheld during the reporting period about matters relating to activities carried out by its employees when acting as retail investment advisers. (3) For the purposes of DISP 1 Annex 1CR retail investment adviser information must be reported by:
FCA 2025/XX
(a) the employee’s Individual Reference Number (IRN); or (b) in the case of an employee of an SMCR firm who is performing an FCA certification function and has no IRN:
(i) the employee’s National Insurance (NI) number and date of birth; or (ii) if the employee has no NI number, the employee’s date of birth, current passport number and nationality. …
1.10.3 G For the purposes of DISP 1.10.2R, DISP 1.10.2-AR, DISP 1.10.2AR,
DISP 1.10.2BR and DISP 1.10.2CR, when completing the return, the firm should take into account the following matters. … (3) If a firm reports on the amount of redress paid under DISP 1.10.2R(1)(b)(ii), DISP 1.10.2R(2)(b)(ii), DISP 1.10.2-AR(4), DISP 1.10.2AR, DISP 1.10.2BR(2)(b) or DISP 1.10.2CR(2)(b), redress should be interpreted to include an amount paid, or cost borne, by the firm, where a cash value can be readily identified, and should include:
…
(4) If a firm reports on the amount of redress paid under DISP 1.10.2R(1)(b)(ii), DISP 1.10.2R(2)(b)(ii), DISP 1.10.2-AR(4), DISP 1.10.2AR or DISP 1.10.2CR(2)(b), the redress should not, however, include repayments or refunds of premiums which had been taken in error (for example where a firm had been taking, by direct debit, twice the actual premium amount due under a policy). The refund of the overcharge would not count as redress. [Note: See SUP 10A.14.24R for the ongoing duty to notify complaints about matters relating to activities carried out by an employee when acting as a retail investment adviser.] … DISP 1 Annex 1C (Illustration of the online reporting requirements, referred to in DISP 1.10.2AR) is deleted in its entirety. The deleted text is not shown but the annex is marked ‘deleted’ as shown below.
FCA 2025/XX
Annex
1CR
Illustration of the online reporting requirements, referred to in DISP 1.10.2AR [deleted] Amend the following as shown. … TP 1 Transitional provisions TP1.1 Transitional provisions table (1) (2) Material provision to which transitional provision applies (3) (4) Transitional provision (5) Transitional provision:
dates in force
(6)
Handbook provision:
coming into force
…
30 DISP 1.10.2AR R Where a firm, which has a reporting period ending on or before 30 June 2013 submits its report to the FCA in accordance with the complaints reporting rule at DISP 1.10.2AR the number of complaints must be calculated for the period from the 31 December 2012 to the end of the firm’s relevant reporting period. [deleted] December 2012 to 30 June 2013. December …
Appendix 3
Lifting the ban on retail access to certain cryptoasset exchange traded notes (cETNs)
FCA 2025/XX
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS (CRYPTOASSET PRODUCTS) INSTRUMENT 2025
Powers exercised
A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument in the exercise of the following powers and related provisions in the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”):
(1) section 137A (The FCA’s general rules);
(2) section 137D (FCA general rules: product intervention); (3) section 137R (Financial promotion rules); (4) section 137T (General supplementary powers); (5) section 139A (Power of the FCA to give guidance); (6) section 213 (The compensation scheme); and (7) section 214 (General). B. The rule-making provisions listed above are specified for the purposes of section 138G(2) (Rule-making instruments) of the Act. Commencement
C. This instrument comes into force on [date].
Amendments to the Handbook
D. The modules of the FCA’s Handbook of rules and guidance listed in column (1) below are amended in accordance with the Annexes to this instrument listed in column (2). (1) (2) Glossary of definitions Annex A Conduct of Business sourcebook (COBS) Annex B Compensation sourcebook (COMP) Annex C Notes E. In the Annexes to this instrument, the notes (indicated by “Editor’s note:”) are included for the convenience of readers but do not form part of the legislative text. Citation F. This instrument may be cited as the Conduct of Business (Cryptoasset Products) Instrument 2025. [date]
FCA 2025/XX
Annex A
Amendments to the Glossary of Definitions
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless stated otherwise. Insert the following new definitions in the appropriate alphabetical position. The text is not underlined. UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note a cryptoasset exchange traded note which is traded on a UK RIE. non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note a cryptoasset exchange traded note which is traded on:
(a) a trading venue which is not a UK RIE; or (b) a market operated by an ROIE. Amend the following definitions as shown. restricted mass market investment any of the following:
…
(e) a qualifying cryptoasset.;
(f) a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note. non-mass market investment (1) (except in COBS 4, COBS 10 and COBS 10A) either of the following:
(a) a non-mainstream pooled investment;
(b) a speculative illiquid security.
(2) (in COBS 4, COBS 10 and COBS 10A) either of the following, provided it is not a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note:
(a) a non-mainstream pooled investment;
(b) a speculative illiquid security. non-readily realisable security (1) (except in COBS 4, COBS 10 and COBS 10A) a security which is not any of the following:
…
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(2) (in COBS 4, COBS 10 and COBS 10A) a security which is not any of the following:
(a) a readily realisable security;
(b) a packaged product;
(c) non-mass market investment;
(d) a mutual society share;
(e) a deferred share issued by a credit union; (f) credit union subordinated debt; or (g) a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note.
FCA 2025/XX
Annex B
Amendments to the Conduct of Business sourcebook (COBS) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless stated otherwise. 4 Communicating with clients, including financial promotions …
4.7 Direct offer financial promotions
…
Warrants and derivatives
…
4.7.6B G Firms are reminded of the prohibitions in relation to the marketing, distribution and sale of cryptoasset derivatives and cryptoasset exchange traded notes non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes in COBS 22.6. …
4.8 Cold calls and other promotions that are not in writing
…
Restriction on cold calling
4.8.2 R A firm must not make a cold call unless:
…
(3) the cold call relates to a controlled activity to be carried on by an authorised person or exempt person and the only controlled investments involved or which reasonably could be involved are:
(a) readily realisable securities (other than warrants or UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes); and (b) generally marketable non-geared packaged products. … 4.12A Promotion of restricted mass market investments … Risk warning
FCA 2025/XX
…
4.12A.1
R (1) For the purposes of COBS 4.12A.10R, the financial promotion must contain:
…
(d) the following risk warning if the financial promotion relates to one or more qualifying cryptoassets or UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes:
…
(2) Where the number of characters contained in the risk warning in (1) exceeds the number of characters permitted by a third-party marketing provider:
(a) the following risk warning must be used if the financial promotion relates to one or more non-readily realisable securities or, qualifying cryptoassets or UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes:
…
…
…
Fourth condition: appropriateness
…
4.12A.2
R (1) The fourth condition applies where the firm itself or the person who will:
…
(d) transact in a qualifying cryptoasset,; or (e) arrange or deal in relation to a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note, … … … 4 Annex 1R Risk summaries …
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[Editor’s note: The words ‘here’ and ‘high-risk investments’ are to appear as underlined wherever they are used in section 9 of COBS 4 Annex 1R.] … 8 Risk summary for qualifying cryptoassets … 9 Risk summary for UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes Estimated reading time: 2 min Due to the potential for losses, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) considers this investment to be high risk. What are the key risks?
1. You could lose all the money you invest
FCA 2025/XX
FCA 2025/XX
…
(iv) warrant; or
(v) unit in a long-term asset fund,; or
(vi) a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note, … … … …
10.2 Assessing appropriateness: the obligations
…
Restricted mass market investments
10.2.9 G (1) When determining whether a client has the necessary knowledge to
understand the risks involved in relation to a restricted mass market investment, a firm should consider asking the client questions that cover, at least, the matters in:
…
(m) COBS 10 Annex 3G in relation to units in a long-term asset fund; or (n) COBS 10 Annex 4G in relation to qualifying cryptoassets.; or (o) COBS 10 Annex 5G in relation to UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes. … Insert the following new Annex, COBS 10 Annex 5G, after COBS 10 Annex 4 (Assessing appropriateness: qualifying cryptoassets). The text is all new and is not underlined.
Annex 5
Assessing appropriateness: UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes
Annex
5.1
G This Annex belongs to COBS 10.2.9G(1)(o).
FCA 2025/XX
Annex
5.2
G When determining whether a retail client has the necessary knowledge to understand the risks involved in relation to a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note, a firm should consider asking the client questions that cover, at least, the matters in COBS 10 Annex 5.3G(1) to (12).
Annex
5.3
G Firms may need to ask additional or alternative questions to ensure that the retail client has the necessary knowledge to understand the risks involved in relation to the specific type of UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note offered. The matters are:
(1) the role of the business offering or marketing the UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note (the business) and the scope of its services, including what the business does and does not do on behalf of clients, such as what due diligence is and is not undertaken by the business on any underlying investments; (2) the nature of the client’s contractual relationship with the issuer and any underlying beneficiaries of the investment; (3) the role of the issuer (including its role in assessing and making underlying investments); (4) that the client can lose all of the money that they invest in UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes; (5) the potential complexity of investments in UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes and the associated difficulty of understanding the risks of the investment; (6) that the performance of many UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes can be highly volatile and that the value of an investment linked to cryptoassets can fall as quickly as it can rise; (7) the risk of losing money as a result of operational risks (such as through cyber-attacks, loss of private keys, comingling of funds) or financial crime; (8) the risk to any management and administration of the client’s investment in the event of the business becoming insolvent or otherwise failing; (9) the extent to which the protection of the Financial Ombudsman Service or FSCS applies to the investment activity (including the fact that these services might not be available and do not protect investors against poor investment performance); (10) the benefits of diversification and that retail clients should not generally invest more than 10% of their net assets in restricted mass market investments;
FCA 2025/XX
(11) in respect of the UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note:
(a) the client’s exposure to the credit risk of the issuer; (b) that returns may vary over time; and (12) where an investment in a UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note is, or is to be, arranged by a firm:
(a) the nature of the client’s contractual relationships with the firm; (b) the role of the firm and the scope of the service it provides to clients (including the extent of the due diligence that the firm undertakes in relation to the securities that it distributes); and (c) the risk to any management and administration of the client’s investment in the event of the firm becoming insolvent or otherwise failing. Amend the following as shown. 10A Appropriateness (for non advised services) (MiFID and insurance-based investment products provisions) … 10A.2 Assessing appropriateness: the obligations … Restricted mass market investments 10A.2.11 G When determining whether a client has the necessary knowledge to understand the risks involved in relation to a restricted mass market investment, a firm should consider asking the client questions that cover, at least, the matters in COBS 10 Annex 1G in relation to non-readily realisable securities or COBS 10 Annex 5G in relation to UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes. … 22 Restrictions on the distribution of certain complex investment products Application
22.6.1 R This section applies to:
FCA 2025/XX
(1) MiFID investment firms, with the exception of collective portfolio management investment firms; (2) branches of third country investment firms; (3) MiFID optional exemption firms; and (4) TP firms which are EEA MiFID investment firms with the exception of collective portfolio management investment firms, in relation to the marketing, distribution or sale of cryptoasset derivatives and cryptoasset exchange traded notes non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded notes in or from the United Kingdom to a retail client. … Prohibitions
22.6.5 R (1) A firm or TP firm must not:
(a) sell a cryptoasset derivative or a cryptoasset exchange traded note non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note to a retail client; or (b) distribute a cryptoasset derivative or a cryptoasset exchange traded note non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note to a retail client; or (c) market a cryptoasset derivative or a cryptoasset exchange traded note non-UK RIE cryptoasset exchange traded note if the marketing is addressed to or disseminated in such a way that it is likely to be received by a retail client. (2) “Marketing” includes, but is not limited to, communicating and/or approving financial promotions.
FCA 2025/XX
Annex C
Amendments to the Compensation sourcebook (COMP) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text. 5 Protected claims …
5.5 Protected investment business
…
Advising without a personal recommendation
5.5.4 R …
Claims relating to cryptoasset exchange traded notes
5.5.5 R This section does not apply in respect of a claim relating to
protected investment business to the extent that it involves any assets or products backed by or secured by cryptoassets, including cryptoasset exchange traded notes.
Appendix 4
Amendments to the UK EMIR Trade
Repository reporting requirements
FCA 2025/XX
TECHNICAL STANDARDS (EMIR REPORTING AND DATA QUALITY AND MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS) INSTRUMENT 2025 Powers exercised A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument in the exercise of the following powers and related provisions in or under:
(1) articles 9(5) and 9(6) (Reporting obligation) of Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on OTC derivatives, central counterparties and trade repositories; and (2) the following sections of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”):
(a) section 138P (Technical Standards);
(b) section 138Q (Standards instruments);
(c) section 138S (Application of Chapters 1 and 2); and (d) section 137T (General supplementary powers). B. The rule-making powers listed above are specified for the purpose of section 138Q(2) (Standards Instruments) of the Act. Pre-conditions to making
C. The FCA has consulted the Bank of England and the Prudential Regulation Authority
as appropriate in accordance with section 138P of the Act.
D. A draft of this instrument has been approved by the Treasury in accordance with
section 138R of the Act.
Modifications
E. The technical standards listed in column (1) below are amended in accordance with the Annexes to this instrument listed in column (2). (1) (2) Technical Standards on the Minimum Details of the Data to be Reported to Trade Repositories
Annex A
Technical Standards on the Standards, Formats, Frequency and Methods and Arrangements for Reporting
Annex B
Commencement
F. This instrument comes into force on [date].
FCA 2025/XX
Citation
G. This instrument may be cited as the Technical Standards (EMIR Reporting and Data Quality and Miscellaneous Amendments) Instrument 2025. [date]
FCA 2025/XX
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text.
Annex A
Technical Standards on the Minimum Details of the Data to be Reported to Trade Repositories …
Article 6
Reporting of exposures
FCA 2025/XX
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text.
Annex B
Technical Standards on the Standards, Formats, Frequency and Methods and Arrangements for Reporting …
Article 3
Frequency of reports
…
2. A CCP, a financial counterparty or a non-financial counterparty referred to in Article
10 of Regulation (EU) No 648/2012, which is a counterparty to the derivative, or the entity responsible for reporting, shall report any modification of the details relating to the collateral data in fields 1 to 29 30 in Table 3 of the Annex to the EMIR Technical Standards on the Minimum Details of the Data to be Reported to Trade Repositories 2023 with action type ‘Margin update’, as those details stand at the end of each day, for that derivative when:
(a) the derivative has not matured and has not been the subject of a report with the action type ‘Terminate’, ‘Error’ or ‘Position component’ as referred to in field 151 in Table 2 of the Annex; or (b) the derivative was subject to a report with action type ‘Revive’ not followed by another report with the action type ‘Terminate’ or ‘Error’ as referred to in field 151 in Table 2 of the Annex. … …
Article 8
Unique Transaction Identifier
…
5. Notwithstanding paragraph 2 3, the generation of the UTI may be delegated to an
entity different from that determined in accordance with paragraph 2 3. The entity generating the UTI shall comply with the requirements set out in paragraphs 1 2 and 3 4.
FCA 2025/XX
…
ANNEX
…
Table 3
Item Section Field Format
…
29 Collateral Event date ISO 8601 date in the UTC format YYYY-MM-DD. 30 Parties to the derivative Execution agent ISO 17442 LEI, 20 alphanumeric character code that is included in the LEI data as published by the Global LEI Foundation. …
Appendix 5
Amendments to SUP 16 on the scheduling of Consumer Credit data returns
FCA 2025/XX
CONSUMER CREDIT (REGULATORY REPORTING) (AMENDMENT) (No 3) INSTRUMENT 2025 Powers exercised A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument in the exercise of the following powers and related provisions in the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”):
(1) section 137A (The FCA’s general rules);
(2) section 137T (General supplementary powers); and (3) section 139A (Power of the FCA to give guidance). B. The rule-making provisions listed above are specified for the purposes of section 138G(2) (Rule-making instruments) of the Act. Commencement
C. This instrument comes into force on [date].
Amendments to the Handbook
D. The Supervision manual (SUP) is amended in accordance with Annex A to this instrument. E. The Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook (DISP) is amended in accordance with Annex B to this instrument. Citation F. This instrument may be cited as the Consumer Credit (Regulatory Reporting) (Amendment) (No 3) Instrument 2025. [date]
FCA 2025/XX
Annex A
Amendments to the Supervision manual (SUP)
In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text. 16 Reporting requirements …
16.12 Integrated Regulatory Reporting
…
Regulated Activity Group 12
…
16.12.29
C
R The applicable data items, reporting frequencies and submission deadlines referred to in SUP 16.12.4R are set out in the table below. Reporting frequencies are calculated from a firm’s accounting reference date, unless indicated otherwise. The due dates are the last day of the periods given in the table below following the relevant reporting frequency period. Description of data item Data item (note 1) Frequency Submission deadline Annual revenue from creditrelated regulated activities up to and including £5 million (note 2) Annual revenue from creditrelated regulated activities over £5 million … Note 9 … (c) This data item does not apply to a not-for-profit debt advice body that at any point in the last 12 months has held £1 million or more in client money or, as the case may be, projects that it will hold £1 million or more in client money in the next 12 months. Such a not-for-profit debt advice
FCA 2025/XX body is instead required to submit data items CCR001, CCR002 and CCR009. (d) Reporting frequencies and reporting periods for this data item are calculated on a calendar year basis. … …
Annex
38B
Notes for completion of Data Items relating to Consumer Credit activities … CCR007 - Consumer credit data: Key data for credit firms with limited permission
82. The purpose of this data item is so that the FCA can collect a small,
proportionate amount of data from the large population of firms with limited permission undertaking credit-related regulated activities, to enable monitoring of the market with a risk-based approach. Guide for the completion of individual fields … … … … 2A Total revenue (including from activities other than credit-related regulated activities) A firm should report all income (before expenses) received for all its business, both regulated and unregulated. For example, if a firm has sold a product for £1,000 and received £50 commission for referring the customer for credit, for data field 2A, the firm should report the total amount of money received, £1,050. This data element should be completed in respect of business within the annual period ending on the firm’s accounting reference date which occurred during the reporting period. If the firm had more than one accounting reference date during the reporting period, then this should be the most recent of these accounting reference dates which occurred before the end of the reporting period.
FCA 2025/XX
…
FCA 2025/XX
Annex B
Amendments to the Dispute Resolution: Complaints sourcebook (DISP) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless stated otherwise. 1 Treating complainants fairly … 1.10A Complaints data publication rules … Time limits for publication 1.10A.3 R … (3) Where the firm is a firm with only a limited permission and its accounting reference date falls between 1 January and 30 June, the firm must publish the total number of complaints received no later than 31 August of the same year. [deleted] (4) Where the firm is a firm with only a limited permission and its accounting reference date falls between 1 July and 31 December, the firm must publish the total number of complaints received no later than 28 February of the following year. [deleted] (5) Where the firm is a firm with only a limited permission, the firm must publish the total number of complaints received no later than 28 February of the following year. …
Appendix 6
Assessment of Value Reporting
Requirements
FCA 2025/XX
COLLECTIVE INVESTMENT SCHEMES SOURCEBOOK (REPORTS AND ACCOUNTS) AMENDMENT INSTRUMENT 2025 Powers exercised A. The Financial Conduct Authority (“the FCA”) makes this instrument in the exercise of the powers and related provisions in or under:
(1) the following sections of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“the Act”):
(a) section 137A (The FCA’s general rules);
(b) section 137T (General supplementary powers); (c) section 247 (Trust scheme rules); and (d) section 261I (Contractual scheme rules); (2) regulation 6(1) of the Open-Ended Investment Companies Regulations 2001 (SI 2001/1228); and (3) the other rule and guidance making powers listed in Schedule 4 (Powers exercised) to the General Provisions of the FCA’s Handbook. B. The rule-making provisions listed above are specified for the purposes of section 138G(2) (Rule-making instruments) of the Act. Commencement
C. This instrument comes into force on [date].
Amendments to the Handbook
D. The Collective Investment Schemes sourcebook (COLL) is amended in accordance with the Annex to this instrument. Citation E. This instrument may be cited as the Collective Investment Schemes Sourcebook (Reports and Accounts) Amendment Instrument 2025. [date]
FCA 2025/XX
Annex
Amendments to the Collective Investment Schemes sourcebook (COLL) In this Annex, underlining indicates new text and striking through indicates deleted text, unless otherwise stated. 4 Investor Relations …
4.5 Reports and accounts
…
Contents of the annual long report
4.5.7 R …
(8) An annual long report of an authorised fund must also contain a statement setting out a description of information about the assessment of value required by COLL 6.6.20R including at least (subject to any other information the authorised fund manager may choose to include):
(a) a separate discussion and conclusion for the matters covered in each paragraph of COLL 6.6.21R, and for each other matter that formed part of the assessment, covering the considerations taken into account in the assessment, a summary of its findings and the steps undertaken as part of or as a consequence of the assessment; [deleted] (b) an explanation for any case in which benefits from economies of scale that were identified in the assessment have not been passed on to unitholders; [deleted] (c) an explanation for any case in which unitholders hold units in a class that is subject to higher charges than those applying to other classes of the same scheme with substantially similar rights; [deleted] (d) the conclusion a summary of the authorised fund manager’s assessment of whether the charges that apply to units in each class of the scheme are justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders in the scheme; and (e) if the assessment has identified that the charges are not justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders, a clear explanation of what action has been or will be taken to address the situation a summary of the remedial action (if any) that the authorised fund manager has taken, or will take, as a result of that assessment.
FCA 2025/XX
(9) An AFM need not include the statement information required by (8) in its annual long report if it makes the statement information available to unitholders annually in a composite report covering two or more of the authorised funds it manages, published in the same manner as the annual long report. … … 8 Qualified investor schemes …
8.3 Investor relations
…
Contents of the annual report
8.3.5A R …
(5) An annual report of an authorised fund must also contain a statement setting out a description of information about the assessment of value required by COLL 8.5.17R including at least (subject to any other information the authorised fund manager may choose to include):
(a) a separate discussion and conclusion for the matters covered in each paragraph of COLL 6.6.21R, and for each other matter that formed part of the assessment, covering the considerations taken into account in the assessment, a summary of its findings and the steps undertaken as part of or as a consequence of the assessment; [deleted] (b) an explanation for any case in which benefits from economies of scale that were identified in the assessment have not been passed on to unitholders; [deleted] (c) an explanation for any case in which unitholders hold units in a class for which the payments out of scheme property in relation to that class as set out in the prospectus (in this rule, “charges”) are higher than those applying to other classes of the same scheme with substantially similar rights; [deleted] (d) the conclusion a summary of the authorised fund manager’s assessment of whether the charges that apply to units in each class of the scheme are justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders in the scheme; and (e) if the assessment has identified that the charges are not justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders, a
FCA 2025/XX clear explanation of what action has been or will be taken to address the situation a summary of the remedial action (if any) that the authorised fund manager has taken or will take, as a result of that assessment. … … 15 Long-term asset funds …
15.5 Annual report and investor relations
…
Contents of the annual report
15.5.3 R …
(5) An annual report of a long-term asset fund must also contain a statement setting out a description of information about the assessment of value required by COLL 15.7.17R including at least (subject to any other information the authorised fund manager may choose to include):
(a) a separate discussion and conclusion for the matters covered in each paragraph of COLL 6.6.21R, and for each other matter that formed part of the assessment, covering the considerations taken into account in the assessment, a summary of its findings and the steps undertaken as part of or as a consequence of the assessment; [deleted] (b) an explanation for any case in which benefits from economies of scale that were identified in the assessment have not been passed on to unitholders; [deleted] (c) an explanation for any case in which unitholders hold units in a class for which the payments out of scheme property in relation to that class as set out in the prospectus (in this rule, “charges”) are higher than those applying to other classes of the same scheme with substantially similar rights; [deleted] (d) the conclusion a summary of the authorised fund manager’s assessment of whether the charges that apply to units in each class of the scheme are justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders in the scheme; and (e) if the assessment has identified that the charges are not justified in the context of the overall value delivered to the unitholders, a clear explanation of what action has been or will be taken to address the situation a summary of the remedial action (if any)
FCA 2025/XX that the authorised fund manager has taken or will take, as a result of that assessment. … …
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“They also align with the commitments outlined in Feedback Statement (FS) 25/2, which set out areas for action and further plans for reviewing our requirements following the introduction of the Consumer Duty.”
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