Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Why Choose Fundsure for Your Director ID Verification? We're Compliance Experts First – Not Just Another ACSP

You now have two main routes to verify your ID: the free GOV.UK One Login method or using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) like us at Fundsure. While many providers offer ACSP verification, most are formation agents, virtual office services, or basic admin companies focused solely on quick checks. At Fundsure, we stand apart in five key ways that give you deeper expertise, stronger security, and real peace of mind.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Avoiding Common Photographing Mistakes in ID Verification: Tips for Smooth ACSP and Companies House Checks

As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we've helped dozens of UK directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) complete their identity verification under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act requirements. While many issues stem from mismatched details or expired documents, a huge number of rejections happen simply because of poor-quality photos of ID documents—like passports, driving licences, or biometric residence permits.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

What Changes for Companies House Filings in Spring 2026?

As we enter 2026, one of the biggest shifts in UK company law is approaching: the full implementation of restrictions on third-party filings under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). From spring 2026 (exact date to be confirmed by Companies House, expected March–May), the rules for who can submit documents to Companies House on behalf of a company will change significantly.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Guide to ACSP Identity Verification for Non-Residents

If you're a director or Person with Significant Control (PSC) of a UK limited company, you've probably heard about the new identity verification requirements introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA). Since November 2025, all directors and PSCs must be verified with Companies House – and for non-residents, this can feel confusing or time-consuming.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

What Makes a Good ACSP?

As the UK's corporate landscape evolves under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) are no longer just administrative helpers—they're frontline guardians against financial crime.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Understanding Non-Financial Misconduct: Navigating FCA Expectations in 2025

Non-financial misconduct refers to serious behaviors unrelated to an individual's professional financial responsibilities, yet they raise concerns about their overall fitness and propriety. Examples include bullying, harassment (including sexual harassment), violence, discrimination, or other actions that undermine trust and inclusivity. These incidents might happen off-duty—at a social event, online, or in personal life—but if they come to light, they can signal deeper character issues that affect professional judgment.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Navigating the 2025 FCA Authorisation Maze: Key Challenges for AIFMs, Advisory Firms, and Investment Managers

As we hit the midpoint of 2025, the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is in full swing with its ambitious regulatory reforms, aimed at boosting the competitiveness of the asset management sector while safeguarding market integrity. For Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFMs), advisory firms, and investment managers, this means a landscape of opportunities—but also a minefield of challenges. The removal of the "small registered AIFM" category, streamlined Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR) updates, and tweaks to MiFID II research payments are game-changers. Yet, with application timelines stretching 6–12 months and costs piling up to £30,000–£75,000 (including FCA fees of £2,720–£10,880), getting it wrong can delay launches or trigger costly revisions.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Do UBOs of Part 4A Regulated Firms Need DBS Checks?

Part 4A regulated firms are subject to the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR). UBOs, defined under MLR 2017 as individuals with significant control (e.g., >25% ownership or voting rights), are distinct from SMF applicants or controllers but may overlap in smaller firms. Here, we analyse whether UBOs of Part 4A firms require DBS checks, considering FCA and MLR requirements.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Understanding New ACSP Anti-Money Laundering Regulations for Company Directors and How Fundsure Can Help

The UK’s fight against economic crime has taken a significant step forward with the implementation of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). This landmark legislation introduces stricter regulations for company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), particularly around identity verification and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

FCA Cracks Down on Financial Crime: Barclays Fined £42 Million

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been making waves in the UK financial sector, and its latest move is a bold one. On July 16, 2025, the FCA slapped Barclays Bank UK PLC and Barclays Bank PLC with a hefty £42 million fine for significant lapses in their financial crime risk management. This action underscores the regulator’s ongoing commitment to keeping UK markets clean and ensuring consumers are protected from financial misconduct.

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Steve Middleton Steve Middleton

Odey: the fine not the breach

I read the Crispin Odey Notice of Decision published by the FCA on 17 March 2025.  Whilst the overall actions of Mr Odey are incredulous and many will be commenting on that part of it, particularly the lack of integrity, I thought that the determination of the fine was interesting so have summarised the process here.  We should note that the FCA’s decision has been referred to the Upper Tribunal, so this may not be the final outcome for Mr Odey. 

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