In a landmark move demonstrating their unwavering commitment to investor protection, New Capital Link (NCL) has taken decisive action following engagement with the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) proactive monitoring team regarding FSMA guidelines. While many firms in the alternative investment space continue to operate without full FSMA compliance, NCL has chosen to lead by example, implementing comprehensive changes to their operations despite significant financial impact.
When approached by the FCA’s monitoring team with advisory notices, NCL’s response was immediate and thorough. The company implemented all recommended changes to their website and lead generation campaigns, including the addition of sophisticated investor self-certification requirements on every page. This decision, while impacting SEO performance and lead generation capabilities, reflects NCL’s core principle: investor protection always comes first.
What is FSMA?
The Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA) provides the framework for financial services regulation in the UK. This comprehensive legislation ensures that financial services firms operate with transparency, fairness, and proper risk management. FSMA regulations are designed to protect investors while maintaining the integrity of the UK’s financial markets.
Why Do Alternative Investments Need to Follow FSMA?
Alternative investments, though technically unregulated, play an increasingly significant role in investment portfolios. The FSMA framework provides essential protections for investors venturing into these sophisticated investment vehicles. While compliance isn’t mandatory for all alternative investment firms, adherence to FSMA guidelines demonstrates a commitment to investor protection and professional standards.
New Capital Link’s Actions
New Capital Link’s response to FCA guidance has been swift and comprehensive. Rather than taking a minimal compliance approach, NCL implemented the most stringent interpretations of FSMA guidelines. CEO Rachel Buscall personally oversaw the implementation of new compliance measures, ensuring that every aspect of NCL’s operations aligned with regulatory best practices.
You are able to download our initial FCA Letter here.
The company’s respect for the FCA’s role is evident in their approach to compliance. “We view the FCA as partners in protecting investors,” states Buscall. “Their guidance helps us maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and investor protection.”
Immediate Changes and Partner Reviews
In perhaps the most significant demonstration of their commitment, NCL immediately severed ties with lead generation companies that didn’t meet FSMA guidelines. This included ending relationships with established partners such as Axis Wealth, Aspire Wealth, and Compare Property Bonds. Moving forward, NCL exclusively partners with FSMA-compliant firms like Compare Alternative Investments.com, subjecting all partnerships to quarterly compliance reviews.
Our Apologies
New Capital Link extends a sincere apology to any investors who may have been contacted through non-FSMA compliant marketing partners. The company has implemented rigorous new processes ensuring they only engage with verified high-net-worth, ultra-high-net-worth, and sophisticated investors. Their quarterly partner vetting process provides an additional layer of protection against non-compliant marketing practices.
In reference to a particular email concerning the Alderley group, we would like to let all investors know that alternative investments carry a very high risk/reward ratio and even when we use language such as asset backed this in no way offers the same level of protection as say a regulated investment where assets are valued and built into the investment as security , we in no way wish to mislead any investors and any investment introduced by us should be fully reviewed by an independent financial advisor.
Important Notice: Understanding New Capital Link’s Role as an Investment Introducer
As a specialist investment introducer, New Capital Link connects qualified investors with carefully selected alternative investment opportunities. We believe it’s essential to provide clear information about our role and the nature of our communications with investors.
Our Role as an Introducer
New Capital Link operates solely as an introducer, connecting qualified investors with investment opportunities. We do not handle funds or provide investment advice. Our role is to present opportunities to certified investors while ensuring all parties understand the nature of potential investments.
Communication with Certified Investors
For certified investors, we can provide detailed promotional materials about investment opportunities, including potential returns and features. However, it’s crucial to understand that all marketing materials should be considered alongside the comprehensive risk warnings and disclaimers provided in our formal documentation.
Enhanced Verification Procedures
New Capital Link has implemented rigorous verification processes to ensure we engage exclusively with qualified investors who meet regulatory criteria. This includes:
Thorough documentation verification for high-net-worth, ultra-high-net-worth, and sophisticated investors A comprehensive quarterly review of all marketing partners Strict adherence to FSMA compliance requirements in all communications
The Importance of Independent Financial Advice
As clearly stated in all our documentation, New Capital Link strongly emphasises that potential investors should:
Seek independent financial advice before making any investment decisions Review all investment documentation thoroughly, including risk disclosures Consider their personal financial circumstances and investment objectives
Our Commitment to Clear Communication
Since our establishment in 2020, New Capital Link has maintained high standards in all investor communications. Under the leadership of CEO Rachel Buscall, we continue to prioritise transparency and proper disclosure in all our interactions.
Professional Review Process
Before considering any investment opportunity, we recommend:
Consulting with qualified financial advisors who can provide personalised guidance Reviewing all documentation with appropriate professional advisors Understanding the full scope of risks and potential returns
Our Belief
As alternative investments become increasingly mainstream, NCL strongly advocates for enhanced regulation. The company believes that stronger oversight benefits both investors and legitimate investment firms, creating a more stable and trustworthy market environment. This position aligns with their long-standing commitment to transparency and investor protection.
The Unfortunate Truth
While alternative investments offer exciting opportunities, the unregulated nature of the space presents inherent risks. Unlike many firms that continue operating without FSMA compliance, NCL has chosen to embrace regulatory guidelines fully. This commitment extends beyond mere compliance – all NCL documentation explicitly recommends consulting independent financial advisors (IFAs) before making investment decisions.
In a significant development, NCL has begun partnering with IFAs to offer white-label alternative investment products, further demonstrating their commitment to professional standards and investor protection. This initiative brings alternative investments into the regulated advisory space, providing additional safeguards for investors.
As the alternative investment sector continues to evolve, New Capital Link’s proactive approach to FSMA compliance sets a new standard for the industry. Their willingness to prioritise investor protection over short-term business interests demonstrates true leadership in the financial services sector.
As always, whenever consider an investment always consult an regulated professional, such as an IFA or Wealth Manager.
If you want to check if an alternative investment company is complying with FSMA or is indeed a legitimate operation check the FCA Watchlist here. ( A list we are happy not to be on)#
If you have been a victim of a scam or have information on a company operating outside of the law contact impartial and non-bios mirror reporter Andrew Penman, a reporter renowned for going after the companies who are not operating inline with FCA Guidelines.
