Category: Compliance & AML · Reviewed by Amy Price, Account Executive · Last reviewed June 2026
The FCA Handbook guide describing how the FCA exercises its statutory enforcement powers — including investigations, disciplinary measures, prohibitions, restitution and prosecution.
EG — the Enforcement Guide — is non-binding guidance describing the FCA’s general approach to enforcement. It explains how the FCA decides whether to investigate, what kinds of disciplinary outcomes are available, when criminal prosecution might be considered, and how the FCA interacts with other authorities.
EG is general guidance under FSMA section 139A. The substantive powers it describes flow from FSMA Parts XI (information and investigations), XIV (disciplinary measures), XV (penalties), XXV (injunctions and restitution), XXVI (criminal offences), XXVII (offences) and Part V (prohibition orders).
EG explains the FCA’s case selection criteria, the way investigators are appointed under FSMA sections 167 and 168, the use of compelled interviews under section 171, the protective notices regime, and the publication policy for enforcement outcomes. EG also covers parallel powers — for example, prosecution under section 397 / Part VII of the Financial Services Act 2012 (false or misleading statements), section 23 (carrying on regulated activity without authorisation), and the Money Laundering Regulations.
The PRA has its own Enforcement Decision Making Committee with similar but separate procedures. Criminal prosecutions may also be pursued by the Crown Prosecution Service or Serious Fraud Office (SFO) where market abuse or fraud is in scope.
EG 2 sets out general principles. EG 7 covers financial penalties. EG 9 covers prohibition orders against individuals — for example a finding under FSMA section 56 that an individual is not a fit and proper person to perform any function in relation to a regulated activity.
FCA Handbook, Enforcement Guide (EG). Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, sections 56, 139A, 167, 168, 171, Parts XI, XIV, XV, XXV, XXVI, XXVII. Financial Services Act 2012, Part 7.
By Matt Bartlett, Director, on 2026-06-11.
This entry is part of the Apex Insurance Wiki. Last reviewed by Matt Bartlett on 2026-06-11. Apex Insurance Brokers Limited, FCA FRN 724952, Companies House 07014570. Not regulated advice — consult your broker on your specific position.
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