The Financial Services Compensation Scheme, the government-backed body which compensates clients of failed regulated firms, has confirmed that it declared six financial services in default over the past two months.

Nearly a third (32%) of over-55s have deferred their retirement plans since the Coronavirus pandemic began in early 2020.

Auo-enrolment pension provider Nest has joined the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the major trade body for the insurance and long-term savings sector.

The FCA says some progress has been made in encouraging providers to increase savings rates but too many accounts - especially closed accounts - let savers down by paying derisory rates.

Expanding Chartered Financial Planner HFMC Wealth has bought London-based Harford Financial Ltd in its fourth deal of 2023.

Acquisitive South Coast-based wealth manager and financial adviser Skerritts has acquired £230m AUM Financial Planning firm Chadwick McLean, which is based in Chester.

The Financial Ombudsman Service is considering charging Claims Management Companies fees of up to £650 per case to help cut down on the tide of speculative claims that can clog up the service.

Financial advice firms Holborn Assets Ltd (FRN 648817) and BSPS-linked Inspirational Financial Management Ltd (FRN223511) are both under investigation by the FSCS after going into administration in recent weeks.

Wealth manager and Financial Planner Liberate Wealth has acquired £275m AUM Somerset-based Financial Planner Stafford House Investments for an undisclosed amount.

National wealth manager and Financial Planner Evelyn Partners has acquired Bucks-based Harwood Hutton, a firm of accountants, tax advisers and business specialists.