The number of appointed representatives continued to fall in 2024/25, according to the latest data from the Financial Conduct Authority.

In this special Guest Column for Financial Planning Today, SSAS expert Martin Tilley looks at the need for SSAS regulation and asks whether we are moving closer to new rules. Martin writes regularly for Financial Planning Today's sister website SIPPs Professional which can be viewed here: https://www.sippsprofessional.co.uk/

Nikhil Rathi has been reappointed as chief executive of the Financial Conduct Authority for a second five-year term and will be CEO until 2030.

The Pensions Regulator (TPR) has levied almost £100,000 in penalties against small DC pension schemes for governance failures related to the 'value for members' assessment.

The FCA has decided to hold off introducing new rules on sustainability-related governance and the transition to net zero for regulated firms following a consultation with the industry.

Nikhil Rathi, chief executive of the FCA, said the regulator was considering how retail markets can take a more holistic approach to Britons’ finances.

The FCA is seeking a £22,500 a year chair for its Smaller Business Panel which often advises the regulator on issues affecting financial advice firms.

A coalition of consumer groups has sent an open letter to MPs and the FCA urging the regulator to abandon its plans to delete most emails automatically after a year.

The FCA has clarified that defence companies should not be treated differently to firms in other sectors when it comes to its sustainability regulations.

The Personal Finance Society has produced a new good practice guide for the Consumer Duty, consolidating key resources for financial advisers.