UK Regulator FCA Outlines 2026–27 Plan With Digital Push & Authorisation System

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has outlined its work programme for 2026-27, focusing on data-led regulation and digital systems. The plan includes a new authorisation tool to be built within existing systems to support faster approvals.

The regulator will use generative artificial intelligence to review firm submissions, support supervision, and reduce manual processes. It also plans to expand testing environments for firms and improve data sharing through automated systems. The FCA has proposed a 1% increase in minimum, flat, and application fees, with the annual funding requirement rising by 0.7%. The programme also includes steps to speed up initial public offerings, begin regulating buy now, pay later products from July, and expand its presence in markets including the United Arab Emirates, China, and India.

The regulator has also identified areas requiring changes to existing rules to address risks.