Financial Services Regulations

We help you navigate the complex world of financial services regulation, whether you are or should be FCA-authorised or not.

Our Dispute Resolution team supports clients across the regulated financial sector, offering specialist advice on FCA authorisation, consumer credit, lending, investments, collective investment schemes and FSMA compliance. We’re here to support you at every stage of your regulatory journey.

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Meet the team

Willis Tower in London

Financial regulation lawyers

When it comes to financial services regulation, getting it right is critical – the risks of non-compliance are high including public sanctions, fines, enforcement problems with any agreements and, on rare occasions, imprisonment. With extensive experience in FSMA-related matters, we deliver tailored regulatory advice that complements the work of financial and legal professionals.

Our expert financial regulation lawyers work closely with professional advisers and regulatory consultants to support your business with structuring, financial strategy and investment planning, helping you manage legal risk and improve client outcomes.

Who we help

Our clients include:

  • Payment solution providers
  • Stock and investment funding platforms
  • Funeral plan providers
  • Businesses providing credit
  • Family offices launching investment and/or property portfolios
  • Charities and educational institutions providing financial accommodation

We also advise individuals and non-financial organisations whose business activities or transactions may fall within the scope of FSMA regulation.

Financial regulation affects a wide range of sectors. Drawing on our full-service expertise, we work closely with our corporate, commercial and banking teams to deliver a seamless service.

Our expertise

We advise on a wide range of regulatory issues, including:

  • Whether an activity is regulated, including subscription agreements, credit-broking services, accepting deposits and operating a collective investment scheme
  • FCA authorisation support and what happens when FCA authorisation expires
  • Use of savings platforms
  • Protection and eligibility under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme
  • Responsibilities of payment institutions and electronic money institutions
  • Financial promotions
  • Compliance with the Financial Promotions Order and FCA financial promotions guidance
  • Responsibilities and obligations of appointed representatives
  • Disclosure of non-financial misconduct and FCA non-financial misconduct guidance
  • Consumer credit income and FCA fee structures
  • Deferred fee arrangements
  • Regulated consumer products, including insurance and investments
  • Dealing with vulnerable customers.

Services from our Dispute Resolution team

Recognition of our work

Investors in People

Investors in People

Legal 500 2026 – Top Tier Firm

Legal 500 2026 – Top Tier Firm

Legal insights and thought leadership

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Hear what our clients say about us

HCR offers genuine expertise in legal matters and a strong focus on commercially advantageous outcomes.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Personable, efficient, commercially aware, responsive and innovative.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

Adam Finch always has a strong grip on matters at every stage.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Cris Manuel-Hughes’ work is meticulous, yet she is approachable, friendly and above makes all the time in the world for you. With her in your corner you will be kept fully informed, up to date and most importantly, you are working with a tenacious litigator.

Client testimonial The Legal 500

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