FCA to hold Annual Public Meeting in Edinburgh
The Financial Conduct Authority will hold its Annual Public Meeting in Edinburgh for the first time on 6 October 2026. This decision underscores the regulator's commitment to strengthening its UK-wide presence and engagement.
First APM outside London
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will host its Annual Public Meeting (APM) in Edinburgh on 6 October 2026, marking the first time the event has been held outside London.
This decision reflects the regulator's ongoing investment in Scotland and its commitment to serving consumers and firms across the entire United Kingdom.
FCA Chair Ashley Alder underscored this commitment during a visit to Edinburgh on 26 May, where he opened a new office space and highlighted the FCA's growing workforce of over 350 colleagues in Scotland.
Alder stated, "Bringing our Annual Public Meeting to Edinburgh for the first time is a deliberate step to strengthen our visibility and accountability right across the UK.
" The hybrid event at the Assembly Rooms will allow both online and in-person participation, aiming to widen public engagement.
The announcement coincides with Alder's visit to Edinburgh on 26 May.
Scotland's financial importance
Edinburgh continues to strengthen its position in global financial centre rankings, underscoring Scotland's importance to the UK's financial services sector and its international competitiveness.
Chris Cummings of the Investment Association noted Edinburgh's long heritage as a leading financial services centre.
The decision to host the APM there reflects the FCA's focus on being more outward-facing and engaged with the markets it serves.
Stakeholders like Citizens Advice Scotland and Consumer Scotland welcomed the move, emphasizing its potential to create stronger connections and address specific consumer challenges in Scotland, such as access to cash and financial inclusion.
This engagement aims to better connect the FCA with the diverse financial landscape across the UK.
Beyond London's financial hub
This inaugural Edinburgh meeting signals a tangible shift in the FCA's operational approach, moving beyond London-centric engagement.
While symbolically powerful, its true impact will depend on sustained, localized efforts to address regional financial challenges.
The event itself is a valuable step towards greater accessibility and accountability for a UK-wide regulator.
Source: FCA to hold Annual Public Meeting in Edinburgh
IN: