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The guidance on this site is designed to provide answers to key operational and legal questions, and practical advice for your business in the face of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 crisis, particularly as Government support measures are gradually withdrawn and the business community adapts to a new working environment.

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What's Happening in DC - Pension Schemes Bill special

This issue focuses on the DC aspects of the Pension Schemes Bill that was recently introduced to Parliament.  The theme running through the DC policy decisions is better outcomes for members, including through value for money assessments and default decumulation solutions.  Investment choices made by consolidated 'megafunds' are also intended to benefit the UK economy.

The Data (Use and Access) Act's data protection reforms – what now?

The Data (Use and Access) Act (DUAA) was a long time in the making: it finally received Royal Assent on 19 June 2025 after weeks of "ping-pong" between the two Houses of Parliament over transparency measures in relation to AI and copyright - measures that were ultimately dropped.  The DUAA includes a package of data protection and e-privacy reforms, introduces frameworks for smart data and digital verification schemes and puts the National Underground Asset Register on a statutory footing.  Now it is finally here, what happens next?  This briefing sets out key takeaways for businesses in relation to the DUAA's data protection reforms.

LAFRA consultation on service charges

On 4 July 2025, the Government issued a consultation asking for input as to how best to implement the sections of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 ("LAFRA 2024") which deal with improving the service charge regime for leaseholders paying both variable and fixed service charges. The Government also seeks to improve the regulation of managing agents, who it acknowledges are crucial for the successful management of both leasehold and commonhold schemes.

EHRC Update on Supreme Court gender decision

The recent Supreme Court decision on the meaning of "sex" in the Equality Act has been widely reported and generated much debate. Whilst the Court provided clarification on what "sex" means in the legal context, on a practical level the decision has given rise to some complex questions and considerations, not least for employers.

Fake or misleading consumer reviews: time's running out to put your house in order

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is about to start enforcing new rules designed to prevent the publication of fake or misleading consumer reviews.  Have you considered how you'd respond if the CMA asks what your business has done to comply?

Private Credit Quiet Consolidation of Power

Once a niche corner of alternative lending, private credit has shown, not only its resilience, but also its ability and willingness to collaborate with various stakeholders. While it was once seen as a rival to traditional banks, that narrative is shifting.

A new milestone for accessibility – the European Accessibility Act now applies

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) can be enforced by Member States from 28 June 2025.  Impacting businesses across a broad range of sectors, the EAA applies to many categories of consumer products and services, particularly digital technologies, which range from payment terminals and smartphones to consumer banking services and online shops. The aim: to make all these products and services accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.  While the EAA applies to products and services provided within the EU (including by UK-based businesses), as we explore later in this briefing, businesses operating exclusively in the UK market also cannot afford to be complacent about accessibility.

Infrastructure and Energy Spotlight – Spring/Summer 2025

In this edition, we look at the UK Government's 10 year Infrastructure Strategy and whether the "Washington effect" has trumped the "Brussels effect" in relation to ESG regulation.  We also provide updates on topics including planning reform, housing, heat networks, national security, pension fund infrastructure investment and carbon markets.

From red to green? UK Labour Government finally consults on sustainability reporting and transition planning

After months of delay,  the UK Government has finally published the long-awaited consultation on the adoption of ISSB sustainability standards as the first UK Sustainability Reporting Standards ("UK SRS"), and on assurance of sustainability-related financial disclosures. At the same time, the Government is consulting on how to implement its manifesto commitment to mandate UK-regulated financial institutions – including banks, asset managers, pension funds, and insurers – and FTSE 100 companies to develop and implement credible transition plans that align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement.

ESG regulation: has the "Washington effect" trumped the "Brussels effect"?

The last 6 months have seen unprecedented turbulence in the field of sustainability regulation. The EU, historically a world leader in environmental standards and responsible business conduct, appears to be backtracking on its leading position and fitting in with the political mood in the US.

A week to go! The European Accessibility Act and its impact on the financial services industry

On 28 June 2025, Member States can start enforcing the European Accessibility Act ("EAA") – a deadline which may have crept up on some firms in the banking and financial services sector.  The EAA applies to a broad range of financial services and associated digital technologies, from payment terminals to online banking platforms. This means banks, payment services providers, e-money and other providers of financial services to retail customers must review their customer interfaces, products and related documentation to ensure compliance.  If EAA compliance has slipped down your "to do" list, now is the time to act.  As we discuss later in this briefing, businesses operating in the UK market also cannot afford to be complacent about accessibility.

PISCES – Key questions answered

With the legal framework now in place for the Private Intermittent Securities and Capital Exchange System ("PISCES") regime to become operational, in this briefing we answer the key questions that clients are asking about this innovative trading platform for private companies.

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