Financial Services Regulatory

Financial institutions around the world face ever more intensive and intrusive regulation, a steady stream of regulatory reforms, and higher fines and associated costs. The cost of non-compliance has never been higher, while the complexity of financial services regulation makes it harder than ever to ensure compliance.

What we do

We advise a wide range of clients on whether they need authorisation, and on how to present their application to the regulator. If you are looking to acquire a regulated business, we carry out regulatory due diligence, advise on structuring the transaction, and assist in making the necessary regulatory applications.

We provide expert advice on compliance with detailed regulatory requirements covering both prudential and conduct of business rules, payment services and e-money, consumer credit and other consumer regulations, corporate governance, financial promotion and the marketing of securities, measures to combat financial crime, market abuse and systems and controls. We monitor both domestic and international developments to alert our clients to new regulatory developments, including European financial services legislation.

We have extensive practical experience of regulatory investigations and enforcement processes, having advised a range of firms and their senior employees in dealing with regulators.

We also advise on the regulatory aspects of a wide range of commercial arrangements including IT outsourcing, technology contracts and distribution agreements. 

What we are known for

We have a particular focus on retail financial services, an area which typically attracts particularly close regulatory scrutiny. We have a detailed understanding of the regulation of the insurance, wealth management and private banking sectors. We also advise a wide range of public and private businesses whose activities bring them into contact with financial services, particular when offering credit or insurance products. 

Detailed elements of our services