FSA publishes retail investment qualifications list

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has published its final list of the qualifications that retail investment advisers need to pass before the start of 2013.

According to the organisation, its decision to release the FSA training advice has come as it looks to provide certainty for advisers as they prepare for the introduction of Retail Distribution review requirements.

The FSA is promoting ongoing study as a way to boost the reputation of the retail investment market by ensuring a high level of compliance and ethics that will win the trust of consumers.

It is also consulting as to whether advisers may need to hold a Statement of Professional Standing which would show they are fully qualified to offer advice.

Such statements would be issued by FSA-accredited bodies that promote professional excellence and are able to adequately check the compliance of advisers.

The publication of the list has come after the FSA set out new rules to ensure customers struggling with mortgage arrears or entering sale and rent back agreements are protected.

Posted by James Harrison