Summary
What this article covers in 30 seconds
- The FCA is expected to emphasise evidence over intent in 2026.
- Supervision is shifting towards more targeted, data-led activity.
- Firms that show strong governance and fair outcomes may benefit from lighter reporting.
- Responsible AI, operational resilience, motor finance, cyber and data protection remain priorities.
TCC Group said 2026 will see the Financial Conduct Authority place greater emphasis on evidence over intent.
The FCA is expected to shift to more targeted, data-led supervision while maintaining a pro-growth stance. Firms that can clearly demonstrate strong governance, fair customer outcomes and effective risk controls may benefit from lighter reporting, but scrutiny will be sharper and more outcome-focused, particularly under Consumer Duty requirements.
Proof of capability
Alongside this, regulators are prioritising responsible AI use, operational resilience, motor finance preparedness and integrated cyber and data protection.
The message for firms is clear: those investing in transparent systems, reliable data and customer-centred practices will reduce regulatory risk and gain competitive trust, as success in 2026 will depend on proving capability rather than promising compliance.
Frequently asked questions
The FCA is expected to place greater emphasis on evidence over intent and targeted, data-led supervision.
Firms that can clearly demonstrate strong governance, fair customer outcomes and effective risk controls may benefit.
Responsible AI, operational resilience, motor finance preparedness and integrated cyber and data protection are also priorities.