FCA authorisation

How they authorise

It is vital that firms and individuals offering financial services run their businesses in the best interests of consumers and uphold the integrity of the financial services industry. The FCA are responsible for authorising, supervising and taking action where needed against firms and individuals who undertake financial services activities.

Firms offering these ‘regulated activities’ have to be authorised or registered by the FCA, unless they are specifically exempt.

Meeting FCA requirements

Applicants have to meet a range of requirements for registration before the FCA allow them to operate in the market. The FCA review their business plans, risks, budgets, resources, systems, controls and whether key staff have the necessary qualifications, experience and ability to carry out their roles effectively.  They must meet these requirements before the FCA authorise or register them.

Getting authorised

To see if a firm should be authorised or registered, what forms should be supplied and what fees will have to be paid, see the FCA’s info on authorisation.