FCA Signals: Consumer Duty and Tech Governance
The FCA’s latest firm survey reports that 88% of respondents understand its expectations on supporting consumers and embedding Consumer Duty, while the regulator continues work to simplify outdated or duplicated reporting. For advice firms expanding their use of AI and integrated platforms, this is a reminder that operational efficiency must remain aligned with demonstrably good […]
First-Time Buyers: Affordability Improves, Costs Rise
Lloyds analysis indicates the UK house-price-to-earnings ratio has fallen to 7.3 times average annual earnings, its lowest level for 11 years, as wages outpace house-price growth. Proposed support through the Your First Home scheme could materially expand the number of new-build homes accessible to single first-time buyers, while Cambridge Building Society has introduced a 98% […]
AI, Open Finance and Mortgage Fraud
AI, open finance, smart data and emerging fraud risks are set to dominate the mortgage technology agenda. At the same time, the FCA says financial firms are closing more suspected money-mule accounts, with criminal funds often moved through multiple accounts before being cashed out. For mortgage and protection firms, the opportunity is to use AI […]
Mortgage Rates Near 6%: Adviser Actions
Mortgage pricing is becoming increasingly uneven. Moneyfacts reports average two- and five-year fixed rates near 6%, while lenders including NatWest, TSB, Barclays, Nationwide and Clydesdale have revised ranges upward or withdrawn lower-priced products. Santander’s cuts, despite elevated gilt yields, underline that repricing is not uniform across the market. Adviser focus: clients with live applications, expiring […]