ROAR Insights.

Monthly Regulatory Summary: UK 2025 July

A monthly summary of regulatory developments in the UK. A pdf version and copies of the weekly update can also be found here. Summary Headlines and Activity Summary Headlines and Activity (July 2025) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Motor Finance Commissions – Supreme Court Ruling: The FCA welcomed a Supreme Court judgment clarifying that undisclosed dealer commissions on car loans did not automatically constitute “bribes” or unfairness under consumer credit law. The regulator worked through the weekend to analyse the ruling… Read more

Insights ¦ What We Need – Support

Published by: Chris Fitch Search for original: Link Key Take Aways There exists a rare ‘once in 25 years’ opportunity to revolutionise vulnerability data-sharing in essential sectors, including financial services. Success hinges on adopting a human-centric approach that tackles consumer disincentives and logistical barriers to disclosure. Consistent, shared terminology around ‘data-sharing’, ‘disclosure’, and ‘vulnerability’ is vital to reduce misunderstandings and build trust. Systems should prioritise delivering actionable support over mere flags, preventing redundant disclosures and enhancing customer experience. Consumer control,… Read more

Insights ¦ Independent Water Commission: Summary Report

Published by: Independent Water Commission Search for original: Link Key Take Aways The report presents the most comprehensive review of the UK water sector since privatisation, emphasising a strategic 'reset' to restore public confidence and attract investment. A long-term, cross-sectoral National Water Strategy with a 25-year horizon is recommended for England and Wales, underpinned by statutory reporting and interim milestones. The current framework for water planning is overly complex, with a key suggestion to establish regional (or national in Wales)… Read more

Insights ¦ Public Financial Lives 2024 survey Credit & loans Selected findings

Published by: Financial Conduct Authority Search for original: Link ey Take Aways The survey reveals that 84% of UK adults hold or have held credit or loans recently, maintaining high engagement levels despite fluctuating economic conditions. Mainstream credit products, notably credit cards (65%) and overdrafts (21%), continue to dominate consumer borrowing, with significant increases in credit card possession among the older population. Usage of high-cost credit has increased modestly, now held by 6.4% of adults, with payday loans and rent-to-own… Read more

Insights ¦ Final non-Handbook Guidance for firms on the Consumer Duty

Published by: Financial Conduct Authority Search for original: Link ey Take Aways The Consumer Duty establishes a proactive, outcome-focused standard requiring firms to prioritise delivering good outcomes for retail customers across the entire product lifecycle. It comprises a Consumer Principle 12, supported by cross-cutting rules around acting in good faith, avoiding foreseeable harm, and enabling customers to pursue financial objectives. Firms must identify and comprehensively monitor customer outcomes, analysing data and customer feedback to detect poor outcomes or systemic issues.… Read more

Insights ¦ Labour Market Outlook Winter 2024–25

Published by: Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Search for original: Link Key Take Aways Employer confidence is at its lowest outside of pandemic conditions, impacting strategic workforce planning. The net employment balance has suffered its steepest quarterly decline since 2014, signalling increased caution among employers. One in four organisations plans to make redundancies in the next three months, a level rarely seen outside the pandemic period. Confidence across sectors is waning, with private sector net employment expectations falling sharply… Read more