As firms enter the second half of 2026, the regulatory landscape continues to evolve at pace, with several significant FCA initiatives set to shape governance, conduct and consumer outcomes over the months ahead.

Firms will now have completed their annual Consumer Duty Board Reports, providing an important opportunity to demonstrate how they are delivering good outcomes for customers. Beyond satisfying regulatory expectations, these reports can offer valuable insight into the effectiveness of existing advice processes, governance arrangements and oversight frameworks. For many firms, the exercise also serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement in an industry undergoing significant regulatory and technological change.

As we move into the second half of 2026, there is little indication that the pace of regulatory reform will slow. The year has already seen the introduction of new reporting requirements through CCR009, and the first phase of reforms to the Senior Managers and Certification Regime has also been rolled out. These initial reforms have focused on reducing operational burdens, giving firms greater flexibility in certification processes and simplifying aspects of Senior Management Function appointments.

Several significant developments remain on the horizon.

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Consultation Preparation Implemen

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