Compliance
Can I run financial ads without FCA authorisation?
Last reviewed 22 April 2026 · Reviewed by Jake McQuillan
Quick answer
Can I run financial ads without FCA authorisation?
No - any communication that invites or induces engagement in an investment activity is a financial promotion and requires authorisation or s21 approval.
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What counts as a promotion
Social posts, ads, landing pages, webinars, podcasts, email sequences - if they promote investment activity (mortgages, pensions, investments, insurance) they are regulated.
Exceptions
Certified high-net-worth and sophisticated investor exemptions apply under FPO, but are narrow and carry strict record-keeping duties.
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