In the UK, the regulatory body responsible for overseeing car finance providers is the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
In this article, we will explore the different types of FCA authorisation that car finance providers require and why it is essential to obtain them.
What Is The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)?
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is an independent regulatory body that regulates financial services firms and markets in the UK. It was established in 2013, and its primary aim is to ensure that financial markets are fair, and transparent, and operate in the best interest of consumers.
Types Of FCA Authorisation For Car Finance Providers
Consumer Credit Authorisation
Consumer Credit Authorisation is the main type of authorisation that car finance providers require. It allows companies to provide regulated consumer credit activities, including car loans, car leasing, and car hire purchase agreements. To obtain this authorisation, companies must demonstrate that they meet the FCA’s regulatory requirements, including having adequate systems and controls in place to ensure that they treat their customers fairly.
Full Permission
Full Permission is a higher level of authorisation that car finance providers can apply for. It allows companies to provide a wider range of financial services, including investment advice, insurance mediation, and debt management services. To obtain Full Permission, companies must meet higher regulatory requirements than those required for Consumer Credit Authorisation. This includes having more robust systems and controls in place and providing evidence of financial stability.
Limited Permission
Limited Permission is a type of authorisation that is available for companies that provide only specific types of financial services. It is a less comprehensive authorisation than Full Permission and is suitable for companies that only provide one or two types of financial services. For example, a car finance provider that only offers car loans may be eligible for Limited Permission.
Why Is FCA Authorisation Important For Car Finance Providers?
FCA Authorisation is essential for car finance providers because it demonstrates that they are operating within the law and in the best interest of their customers. FCA regulation aims to ensure that customers are treated fairly and that financial markets operate with integrity. By obtaining FCA Authorisation, car finance providers can demonstrate that they have robust systems and controls in place to meet these regulatory requirements.
FCA regulation also provides customers with a level of protection if something goes wrong. For example, if a car finance provider goes out of business or fails to meet its regulatory obligations, customers may be eligible for compensation through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). However, to be eligible for FSCS compensation, customers must have dealt with a company that is authorised by the FCA.
Finally, FCA Authorisation can also help car finance providers to build trust with customers. Customers are more likely to trust a company that is authorised by the FCA because they know that the company has met rigorous regulatory requirements and is operating within the law.
Summary
In conclusion, car finance providers require FCA Authorisation to provide regulated financial services to consumers. Consumer Credit Authorisation is the main type of authorisation that car finance providers require, but they can also apply for Full Permission or Limited Permission depending on the range of services they offer. FCA Authorisation is essential for car finance providers because it demonstrates that they are operating within the law and in the best interest of their customers.
