FCA agrees MoUs with ESMA and EU regulators to allow cooperation and exchange of information

The MoUs cover cooperation and exchange of information in the event the UK leaves the EU without a withdrawal agreement and implementation period. Until an agreement is reached the FCA will continue to plan for a range of scenarios, including if the UK leaves the EU without an agreement.

The MoUs are:

1. a multilateral MoU with EU and EEA National Competent Authorities (NCAs) covering supervisory cooperation, enforcement and information exchange; and
2. an MoU with the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) covering supervision of Credit Rating Agencies and Trade Repositories.

Andrew Bailey, Chief Executive of the Financial Conduct Authority, said:

‘I am pleased we have been able to agree these MoUs. They will allow for continued close cooperation in the event the UK leaves the EU without an agreement.

‘They should also minimise the potential for disruption, which we know is particularly important for the investment management sector, Credit Rating Agencies and Trade Repositories.’

These MoUs will support cross border supervision of firms and allow us to share information with our EU counterparts.

For more information, contact the FCA press office on 020 7066 3232 or [email protected].

Notes to editors

1. Under EU legislation it is possible for fund managers to delegate portfolio management services to a third party in another country, including countries outside the EU. In relation to funds and managers authorised under the relevant EU legislation, there are requirements for cooperation agreements between the supervisory authorities in the relevant EU member state and the non-EU country concerned.
2. On 1 April 2013, the FCA became responsible for the conduct supervision of all regulated financial firms and the prudential supervision of those not supervised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA).
3. The FCA has an overarching strategic objective of ensuring the relevant markets function well. To support this, it has 3 operational objectives: to secure an appropriate degree of protection for consumers; to protect and enhance the integrity of the UK financial system; and to promote effective competition in the interests of consumers.
4. Find out more information about the FCA.