FCA Looks for Members for Its Advisory Committee on Secondary Markets

Why It Matters

The committee’s advice will shape FCA policy on liquidity, pricing and systemic risk, directly influencing the cost and stability of UK wholesale trading venues.

Key Takeaways

• FCA seeks 25 senior market experts for 2‑year advisory term
• Applications close May 18 2026; submit CV and cover letter to [e-mail]
• Committee advises on competition, consumer protection, and market integrity reforms
• Quarterly meetings, with flexibility for additional sessions as needed
• Diversity and balanced firm representation are core selection criteria

Pulse Analysis

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is reopening recruitment for its Secondary Markets Advisory Committee, a body created in 2022 to provide independent insight into the UK’s wholesale secondary markets. These markets—covering equities, derivatives, fixed‑income securities and commodity contracts—are the backbone of liquidity for institutional investors and play a pivotal role in price discovery. As the FCA tightens its supervisory focus following post‑Brexit reforms and the rise of digital trading platforms, the committee’s expertise will help shape a regulatory framework that balances innovation with stability. The FCA’s mandate also includes aligning UK market standards with global best practices.

The 25‑member panel, appointed in a personal capacity, is tasked with identifying market‑wide risks, recommending competition‑enhancing measures, and strengthening consumer protection. By delivering data‑driven analysis, the committee can influence policy decisions on issues such as clearing obligations, transparency standards, and the treatment of emerging assets like crypto‑linked derivatives. FCA’s explicit commitment to diversity and balanced firm representation ensures that perspectives from banks, asset managers, trading venues, and fintech innovators are reflected, fostering more robust and inclusive market reforms. Such collaborative input is especially critical as cross‑border trading volumes surge.

Applicants have until 18 May 2026 to submit a CV and cover letter to [e-mail], with two‑year terms that may be renewed. Participation offers senior market professionals a direct channel to affect regulatory outcomes that will shape trading costs, execution quality, and systemic resilience. For market participants, the committee’s recommendations can translate into clearer rules, reduced frictions, and greater confidence for investors. Monitoring the committee’s quarterly meetings will be essential for firms seeking early insight into forthcoming FCA initiatives and competitive advantages. Stakeholders are encouraged to monitor published minutes for actionable intelligence.