Redmill Week 2 Flashcards
Who is the FCA responsible for, from both a conduct and prudential perspective
The FCA is responsible for the conduct of ALL firms in the financial services sector. And they are responsible for the Prudential regulation of smaller firms.
True or false, the Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Policy Committe are part of the Bank of England?
True
Which part of the FCA handbook applies to all firms?
Principles for Business (PRIN)
Which FCA sourcebook is key to equity release?
Mortgage and Home Finance Conduct of Business Sourcebook (MCOB)
Do FCA sourcebooks provide rules or guidence?
FCA sourcebooks provide guidance
Are all equity release arrangements in the UK regulated?
Yes they are
Which 3 key changes happened following the MCOB revision in line with the Mortgage Market Review (MMR)?
- A shift from earnings multiples to affordability-based lending
- Outlawing self-certification mortgages
- Protecting those in arrears from punitive changes that would make things worse
How does MCOB apply to directly authorised firms?
The firm will be responsible for ensuring that all MCOB requirements are met
How does MCOB apply to Appointed Representatives?
The authorised firm (principle) will be responsible for the compliance.
What are the requirements for an equity release contract to be regulated under MCOB?
- Loan is made to either an individual or trustee
- Secured by first legal charge
- At least 40% if the property is used as a dwelling by the borrower or related person
Which type of buy-to-let contracts have regulated protection?
Consumer buy-to-let
What is the minimum reflection period for a mortgage?
7 Days minimum
Which is exempt from the Mortgage Credit Directive (MCD)? Lifetime mortgages or Home Reversion
Lifetime mortgages are exempt from the MCD
How does the FCA regard the risk of equity release products?
They are regarded as high risk
Who should valuations for equity release purposes be undertaken by?
A competent and independent valuer
Information for customers in equity release should be given information in a durable medium. What does this mean?
This means that information should be provided in a way in which it cannot be altered
Is cold calling permitted for equity release?
No cold calling is permitted
An adviser should take particular interest around committed expenditure when considering equity release, what is committed expenditure?
Permitted expenditure is expenditure that cannot be altered such as council tax
If more than one product is equally suitable, what three ways must an adviser justify the recommendation by?
Either
- Selecting the cheapest option
- By availability
- Other added-value features important to the customer
When must a firm provide an illustration for equity release?
Every time advice is given or where a customer is seeking execution only
How accurate must a lifetime mortgage illustration be?
Illustrations must be no more than the greater of 1% or £1 below the actual figure charged by the lender