FCA unveils simplified advice rules to close advice gap

FCA unveils simplified advice rules to close advice gap

In July 2025, the UK Financial Conduct Authority published the most significant reform to financial advice since the 2012 Retail Distribution Review.
The new “targeted support” and “simplified advice” framework allows consumers with modest savings (typically £10 000–30 000) to receive generic investment guidance without full suitability assessments.
Implementation begins by April 2026 and should improve access to financial advice for millions, potentially offered by up to 100 firms at low or no cost.
This regulatory change matters to UK savers seeking low‑barrier guidance and long‑term investment help.

Water Regulator Ofwat Criticized for 'Chaotic' Approach

The UK's water regulator, Ofwat, has come under fire for its 'chaotic' and 'unfit' approach to managing the country's water and sewage companies.

UK Falling Behind EU on Environmental Rules Post-Brexit

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UK Regulator Probes Troubled Wood Group's Financials

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BoE Consults on Extending RT2 and CHAPS Settlement Hours

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Rachel Reeves Outlines Financial Services Growth Strategy

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Almost 9% of savers got advice in past year, FCA survey finds

Few UK savers receive regulated financial advice annually.

Debt priority: tackle highest‑interest first

MoneyHelper suggests focusing on high‑rate debts like credit cards first.

Warm Home Discount Expansion to Benefit 6 Million Households

The Department for Work and Pensions confirms the £150 Warm Home Discount scheme will expand to include Universal Credit claimants from this winter.

Close Brothers Faces New Blow Over Car Loans as Fresh Compensation Set Aside

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Pension Age to Rise Again, Leaving 1.5 Million Britons Facing Benefit Limbo

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UK's Largest Crypto Fraud: Money Launderer Convicted After Seven-Year Met Police Investigation

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UK Pension Age Must Rise to 68 Sooner Than Planned, Report Finds

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Global Markets Brace for US Government Shutdown as Asian Shares Trade Narrowly

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Ditch Bathtubs for Groutless Showers

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Teesside Social Mobility Fund Provides Over £23,000 in Grants to Local Projects

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Gold Hits Best Annual Performance Since 1979 as Geopolitical Crises Fuel Bullion Bonanza

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QR Code Parking Scams Warning

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Natural Cleaning with Everyday Foods

Use lemons, vinegar, and other foods for eco-friendly cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals.

Beef Shortage and Low Confidence Push US Cattle Prices to Record Highs, Hitting Restaurants and Consumers

US cattle and beef prices have soared to record highs amid tight domestic supply, strong consumer demand, and ranchers’ reluctance to expand herds, with restaurant owners forced to pass on soaring costs to diners.

Bullion Bonanza: Gold Price Hits Record Highs Amid Global Instability

Gold is on track for its strongest annual performance since 1979, with bullion hitting a series of record highs driven by high interest rates, inflation, and increasing geopolitical crises.

Wales Tourism Tax Law Signed: Families Face £36.30 Levy for a Week in a Holiday Cottage from 2027

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British Parliamentarians Propose 'Stealth Tax' on Workers

The Liberal Democrats warn that an estimated 1.3 million people will pay an additional £285 a year in a 'stealth tax' if the chancellor freezes income tax thresholds.

Money Worries Impact Work

22% of workers report money worries harming job performance, with 19% taking sick leave due to financial stress, per BSA research.

BMW Finance Payouts

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UK Housing Market Slows

UK housing market sees 2% price drop in Q3 2025, driven by high interest rates and economic uncertainty.

Rundown House Auction in Nantlle

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Central Heating Mistakes Costing Bills

Expert warns of five common central heating errors adding hundreds to UK households' energy bills.

UK’s Cold Weather Payment Triggered

Cold Weather Payments activated in parts of UK as temperatures drop below zero for seven consecutive days.

UK Housing Market Slows in 2025

UK house prices rise just 1.2% in 2025, with high interest rates cooling demand, says Halifax.

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