Financial regulation has transformed significantly over the past 40 years — and with good reason.
From light-touch oversight in the 1980s to today’s highly structured regulatory environment, the evolution of regulation has reshaped how advice is delivered, governed and monitored.
The Changing Regulatory Landscape
Since 1986, advisers have adapted to:
- Increased consumer protection standards
- Enhanced disclosure requirements
- Cross-border regulatory coordination
- Stronger governance and compliance frameworks
- Heightened accountability for advice outcomes
Each development has raised expectations — both for firms and advisers.
Why Regulatory Footprint Matters
A firm’s regulatory footprint is more than a badge — it reflects:
- Where it is authorised and overseen
- The required regulatory obligations
- Its ability to operate across jurisdictions
- The scope of activities it is permitted to carry out
- For internationally mobile clients, this matters enormously. Advice that spans borders must operate within clear regulatory parameters to protect clients and advisers alike.
Experience Navigating Regulation
Firms that have grown alongside regulation understand that compliance is not a constraint — it is a foundation. Over time, strong governance can contribute to:
- Building client confidence
- Supporting adviser professionalism
- Potential sustainable growth
- Mitigate operational risk
Experience allows firms to embed regulation into processes rather than treat it as an afterthought.
What Clients Should Look For
When choosing a financial adviser, clients should consider:
- Regulatory authorisation
- Length of operating history
- Governance structures
- International capability
- Transparency around advice processes
Longevity combined with regulation can provide insight into how a firm has adapted, not resisted, change.
Looking Forward
Regulation will continue to evolve. Firms with established compliance cultures are best placed to adapt — protecting both clients and advisers in an increasingly complex environment.
Final Thought
Forty years of regulatory change has shown that strong oversight and experienced advice go hand in hand. For clients planning across borders and generations, regulatory strength is not optional — it is essential.
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.