1. FCA confirms simplified mortgage rules

In July, the FCA confirmed a new package of measures for mortgage borrowers as part of a series of reforms the regulator was undertaking to mortgage rules.

The changes were made to make it easier for borrowers to remortgage with a new lender, helping them access cheaper products.

They also made it simpler for borrowers to reduce their mortgage term, helping to lower the total cost of borrowing and reduce the risk of repayment extending into retirement.

The FCA published its timeline for mortgage rule changes earlier this month. It will start to consult the public on proposed rule changes in four areas from early 2026 and aim to have the first rule changes in place later that year.

With plenty of regulatory changes on the cards for 2026, we expect to have another busy year in financial services for 2026!