FCA UK Regulation Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

A formal client agreement is essential when providing certain services primarily for retail clients. This requirement stems from the need to ensure that retail clients, who often have less investment knowledge and experience compared to institutional and corporate clients, are adequately protected. The agreement outlines the terms of the relationship, including the services provided, fees, risks involved, and the obligations of both the client and the service provider.

Retail clients are afforded additional protections under regulatory frameworks due to their vulnerability to potential financial losses. These regulations ensure that retail clients understand their rights and responsibilities, making the formal agreement a crucial aspect in maintaining transparency and trust in the financial services industry.

While other types of clients, such as institutional clients or high-net-worth individuals, may also benefit from client agreements, the specific regulatory obligations tied to retail clients necessitate a formalized agreement to safeguard their interests.