Mind the Hype: The Law on Financial Promotions in the UK

Mind the Hype: The Law on Financial Promotions in the UK

Why This Matters

Tempted to post about your new investment scheme on LinkedIn? Thinking of slipping a few promising numbers into your next client newsletter? Careful now. In the UK, encouraging people to invest in anything – be it a bond, a business, or a baffling crypto token – is likely to be a “financial promotion”, and that means rules. Serious ones.

Under section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (“FSMA”), you’re not allowed to promote investments to the public unless you’re authorised by the FCA, working with someone who is, or relying on a legal exemption. No authorisation, no promotion. No excuses.