Overview
Asset managers today operate in a highly complex and evolving regulatory environment where transparency, fiduciary responsibility, and sustainability are at the forefront. Regulators, investors, and other stakeholders expect firms to demonstrat’e robust compliance practices, particularly in areas such as reporting standards and responsible investment. Ensuring compliance is therefore not only essential for meeting regulatory approval but also for preserving investor confidence and safeguarding long-term business growth.
Key Compliance Challenges
FCA Authorization and Adherence to Regulatory Mandates
Asset managers must secure and maintain authorization from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires demonstrating robust systems, controls, and compliance frameworks. Ongoing adherence to FCA rules and evolving regulations is essential to avoid penalties, reputational damage, and disruptions to operations
Managing Suitability and Fiduciary Responsibilities
Firms are expected to act in the best interests of their clients by ensuring that investment products and strategies are suitable and aligned with client objectives. Meeting fiduciary responsibilities requires strong governance, accurate risk profiling, and transparent communication with investors.
Best Execution of Trades and Transaction Reporting
Asset managers have a regulatory duty to achieve the best possible execution for client trades while also meeting strict transaction reporting requirements. This involves implementing effective trading policies, monitoring execution quality, and ensuring timely and accurate reporting to regulators.
ESG Integration and Sustainability Disclosures
With the growing importance of responsible investing, asset managers must integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into their decision-making and reporting. Regulators and investors alike demand clear disclosures that demonstrate a firm’s commitment to sustainability and ethical investment practices.
AML and KYC Compliance
To safeguard against financial crime, asset managers must comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. This includes conducting thorough client due diligence, monitoring transactions for suspicious activity, and ensuring robust reporting systems are in place.
How ABM Can Help
Licensing
We provide expert support with FCA consultation, preparing authorization applications, and guiding firms through the entire licensing process. Our team also ensures robust post-licensing monitoring, helping firms maintain compliance with evolving regulatory obligations
Governance
ABM designs tailored governance frameworks that align with FCA expectations and industry best practices. These frameworks cover decision-making structures, compliance oversight, and risk management to ensure firms operate with accountability and transparency
Policy & Procedures
Our experts develop and implement comprehensive compliance policies, including trade execution protocols and conflict of interest management. These tailored procedures not only meet regulatory requirements but also strengthen internal controls.
Reporting
We assist asset managers in preparing and submitting accurate regulatory reports. From transaction reporting and fund disclosures to ESG and sustainability reports, we ensure all reporting obligations are fulfilled with precision and timeliness.
AML/KYC
Our AML and KYC solutions provide firms with a robust framework to detect and prevent financial crime. This includes designing transaction monitoring systems, ensuring proper due diligence, and supporting firms in reporting suspicious activity in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Audits & Assurance
ABM conducts independent compliance audits and AML assessments to identify gaps and strengthen controls. We also provide FCA audit remediation support, helping firms resolve identified issues quickly and effectively.
Training
To embed a culture of compliance, we deliver tailored training programs on FCA regulations, AML obligations, and ESG requirements. These sessions are designed for all levels of staff, ensuring teams are equipped with the knowledge and skills to maintain ongoing compliance.


