| Link(s): | FCA Authorisations operating service metrics 2025/26 Q3 | FCA Authorisations operating service metrics Q3 2025/26 |
Context
The FCA has published its quarterly authorisations metrics data from October to December 2025.
Key points to note and next actions
Q3 2025/26 is the first quarter in which the FCA is reporting against its new targets, which are designed to reduce the authorisation timelines in support of the Government’s growth agenda. The FCA acknowledges the targets are ambitious and will require high performance from its case officers and associated systems.
The report shows that 97% of applications across all metric areas were determined within the new deadlines, and that when considering the existing statutory deadlines, 99.4% of cases were determined within that deadline. Some red / amber metrics related to Approved Person (SM&CR related), New Firm Authorisation and certain Payment Services / E-money Authorisations being determined after the application deadline, where more time had been needed to reach a decision.
The metrics are for FCA-regulated (solo) firms only and the next publication of performance will be in May 2026.