Financial services

The financial services sector is a significant contributor to UK income and employment. Over a million people in Britain are employed in financial services, of which two-thirds are based outside London. Financial services is also one of the largest export industries in the UK.

The financial crisis that began in the summer of 2007 has, however, highlighted the need for a more resilient and sustainable financial services industry to support the broader economy. In addition to being an important part of the economy in its own right, the financial services sector provides essential credit and financial services to businesses and households.

The Government is working hard to ensure that the UK has a reformed, fair and competitive financial services industry. In this, the UK must also continue to engage with European and international partners to ensure the international financial reform agenda stays focused, proportionate and consistent across the world’s major markets.

The HMT website is moving to GOV.UK
Credit easing
Credit easing refers to measures aimed at easing credit conditions for businesses that do not have ready access to capital markets by giving them access to cheaper bank loans and to non-bank sources of finance.
Financial services policy agenda
The Coalition Government has outlined a bold policy agenda for financial services. Find here a quick snapshot of the key issues
Financial stability
Financial stability is crucial to the UK economy and is a key objective for the Treasury. Find out about the financial crisis, the cost and management objectives of intervening in the financial sector, and ongoing work in this area
The Financial Services Act
The commencement of the Financial Services Act 2012 on 1 April 2013 will implement the Government's commitment to strengthen the financial regulatory structure in the UK.
World-class financial centre
The UK remains a world-leading hub for financial services. Find out more about the competitiveness of the sector and this important area of UK trade
Europe & International: the agenda for financial services
In the wake of the financial crisis, a strong regulatory reform agenda underpins European and wider financial services policy. Find out more about the global agenda for financial services, as well as continuing efforts to strengthen the single market
Financial services and the consumer
Financial services plays a vital role in supporting the broader economy and providing essential credit to households and consumers. Find out more about consumer issues, or access contact information for help and advice
Financial sanctions
Information on financial sanctions in the UK including a consolidated list of financial sanctions targets
Anti-money laundering & counter terrorist finance
Combating money laundering: guidance, consultation documents and details of the Money Laundering Advisory Committee
Equitable Life
Commitment to a transparent and fair payment scheme for Equitable Life policyholders.

Financial services

Share

Financial services sectors