The FCA's gateway to authorisation is now more robust than it has ever been, with higher standards, more intensive assessment and greater scrutiny being undertaken by the Regulator.  More than ever, Paradigm's dedicated and bespoke service can be invaluable in helping you to navigate the authorisation process as we assist you in the correct completion, preparation and submission of your application for authorisation. 

Our assistance doesn't just stop there though.  With our support, you can also be fully prepared for the FCA's stronger oversight of newly authorised firms as, once authorised, you will then enter into the FCA's Early Oversight programme. This is where you will be closely supervised to ensure that your firm is complying fully with FCA rules and closely following your firm's business plan. For firms with plans to upscale at pace, the FCA will place you in their High Growth oversight programme and Paradigm is also perfectly placed to work with such firms to ensure you receive more intensive support, as required. 

Please read on for more details of how we can help you become FCA authorised... and please do check out the testimonials further below from firms who we have helped guide through this process. 

What we do

Providing FCA application support and FCA regulation assistance is one of our specialist areas and we are proud to have personally helped hundreds of firms gain FCA authorisation over the years. This service is suited to firms looking to become directly authorised with the FCA - either as a new venture or because they are leaving a Network.

We frequently get calls from advisers who are considering going directly authorised; it's a huge decision to make and that's why we offer firms comprehensive and bespoke support through this process. Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your requirements and tailor this service to you (after all, no two firms are the same), this includes assistance and guidance with:

• Using the FCA online connect system
• Building your FCA application form
• Sense checking and fine tuning your responses
• Providing FCA authorisation help by answering all your FCA authorisation process queries
• Drafting the required documentation for your new firm, including disclosure documents, Business plan and T&C plan
• Drafting financial forecasts and profit and loss accounts
• Dealing with the regulator’s queries as the application progresses
• Novation of clients (if required)
• Full post-authorisation support in the form of ongoing compliance support and business consultancy services

Paradigm's Technical Helpdesk team works extremely closely with firms who are going through the FCA's application process. Our experience in this area means we will be able to talk you through all of the different questions and areas you might (understandably) be unsure of, and to help make sure you get your application right first time. We pride ourselves in a very bespoke and personal approach to this service as it really is unique to every firm. We'll be on hand to support you and help you make this exciting next step in your firm's journey! If you'd like to know more about this service, please complete this short form and one of the team will contact you to discuss this further.