What is the significance of the FCA Handbook?

The FCA Handbook is essential because it provides comprehensive guidance and rules that financial firms must follow to ensure compliance with FCA regulations. This framework is critical for maintaining consistent standards across the financial sector in the UK, thus promoting fair practices and protecting consumers. It covers various areas, including conduct of business, prudential standards, and reporting obligations, ensuring that firms are well-informed of their responsibilities and the necessary measures to mitigate risks.

While the FCA Handbook contains some information about authorized firms and may also be used for training purposes, those aspects are secondary to its primary role of providing regulatory guidance and rules. This focus on compliance helps create a stable financial environment that fosters consumer confidence and market integrity.