Latest by James Wickes
FCA Review of AML failings at challenger banks
Throughout 2021, the FCA conducted a detailed review into the financial crime controls of challenger banks as they continued to enter the UK financial industry at a rapid pace. Their surge in popularity is partially linked to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has prompted significant changes in the habits of service providers worldwide. Whilst the FCA's review indicated some evidence of good practice, it is clear that challenger banks must do more to reduce the significant risks of financial crime occurring both at the time of customer onboarding and throughout the subsequent customer journey.
Read moreCOVID-19 and the impact on UK corporate insolvencies
It has been just over two years since the World Health Organisation first declared Covid-19 a pandemic, and as the UK prepares to transition away from an era of pandemic restrictions and unprecedented government intervention, to a more ‘business-as-usual’ open economy, it seems timely to consider the possible legacies of this crisis on UK businesses.
Read moreShell directors facing potential UK ESG shareholder derivative lawsuit
In the wake of COP26, more focus than ever is being given to the climate risks which apply to every aspect of business. Scrutiny of a company's climate awareness and adherence to applicable regulation is at the forefront of minds of companies' stakeholders.
Read moreShell directors facing potential UK ESG shareholder derivative lawsuit
In the wake of COP26, more focus than ever is being given to the climate risks which apply to every aspect of business. Scrutiny of a company's climate awareness and adherence to applicable regulation is at the forefront of minds of companies' stakeholders.
Read moreCurrent developments/trends in shareholder/ D&O claims in Europe
Every country across the world is increasingly taking on more debt and this has only been intensified by the pandemic, resulting in an upsurge in claims. People and companies will seek to recover funds wherever they can.
Read moreThe Regulatory Spotlight is shining bright and not just on AFMs
On 20 June 2021, the FCA published its findings from the review it carried out on host Authorised Fund Management firms during 2019-2020. The purpose of the review was "to test the viability of the host Authorised Fund Manager (AFM) business models and assess whether conflicts of interests were being effectively managed."
Read moreCompany Top Guns may face HMRC investigation
HMRC clamping down on furlough fraud by companies in Danger Zone
Read moreNew Guidance on when lawyers can attend an SFO section 2 interview
On 6 June 2016, the SFO issued 3 short guidance notes to replace the Operational Handbook that had previously governed interviews under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987 (Section 2).
Read moreIFAs quizzed by FCA over insistent clients
The FCA has asked IFAs to explain how they deal with situations where clients wish to act against advice on pension transfers.
Read moreInterest Rate Hedging Products Mis-selling Update
(The following article by Simon Greenley/James Wickes was first published in Insurance Day (www.insuranceday.com) on 30 May 2013).
Read moreFCA launches thematic probe into 'transition management' in asset management sector
It has been reported in the FT overnight that the FCA is swooping on the London offices of the world’s biggest banks and asset managers in a new probe aimed at a widespread (and lucrative) business known as "transition management".
Read more"Transition management" – possible notifications from FCA investigations
It has been reported in the FT overnight that the FCA is swooping on the London offices of the world’s biggest banks and asset managers in a new probe aimed at a widespread (and reportedly lucrative) type of business known in the industry as "transition management".
Read moreInterest Rate Hedging Products Mis-selling
On Friday 29 June 2012, the FSA published its initial report on the mis-selling of Interest Rate Hedging Products ("IRHP") to SME businesses, following a two month investigation.
Read moreDirectors & Officers beware - the SFO gets serious
Following the collapse of various high profile cases and the subsequent inquiry into its practices, change is clearly rife at the Serious Fraud Office.
Read morePPI – end of an era or a new chapter?
The FOS recently released its latest six-monthly figures showing the types and levels of complaints received by financial institutions.
Read morePPI: The storm before the hurricane?
Yesterday the FSA announced the levels of redress paid by firms during the first six months of 2011 to consumers who have complained about mis-selling of PPI.
Read more