This eLearning course focuses on the specific requirements of COBS 22.5, which sets out the FCA's rules on standardised risk warnings in financial promotions relating to high-risk investments. The course is designed for financial services professionals who are involved in creating, approving, or distributing financial promotions and communications to retail clients.
The course explains the regulatory context behind COBS 22.5, including the FCA's concerns about consumer harm from inappropriate investments in high-risk products. It covers the types of investments that fall within scope, including contingent convertible instruments, shares in non-mainstream investment vehicles, and qualifying cryptoassets, and explains when a standardised risk warning must be provided.
Practical guidance is provided on the format and content requirements for risk warnings, including the specific wording prescribed by the FCA, the prominence and visibility requirements, and the rules around linking to further information. The course also addresses the obligations around financial promotions more broadly, including the requirement that communications must be fair, clear, and not misleading.
By the end of the course, learners will understand when COBS 22.5 applies, what the specific requirements are for standardised risk warnings, and how to ensure that their firm's financial promotions comply with the rules. The training helps firms avoid regulatory breaches and supports the delivery of clear, compliant communications to consumers.
