Regulatory and operations specialist joins the Equity Release Council

Financial services consultancy and operations specialist, Square 4, has become the latest member of the Equity Release Council. 

Square 4 helps firms navigate compliance, regulatory challenges, and operational improvements, designing bespoke solutions across a diverse and challenging regulatory agenda. 

The firm’s tailored advisory, resourcing, and learning approach spans sectors including banking, insurance, investments, pensions, and equity release. Square 4 has supported many firms across the financial services spectrum to navigate regulatory and compliance challenges, following the implementation and post-implementation of the FCA's Consumer Duty.

Square 4 offers a Consumer Duty Board Report Guide, which helps firms ensure all regulatory expectations, rules, and best practices are effectively considered, evidenced, and approved. This allows firms to not only comply with regulations but show they are committed to improving customer outcomes.

Jim Boyd, CEO of the Equity Release Council, said: “As the newest member of the Equity Release Council, Square 4 joins a number of consultancies that are committed to upholding the highest standards within the later life sector. Their decision to join the Council demonstrates the opportunity and continued evolution of the equity release sector that embraces innovation to deliver the best outcomes for customers.

“With a rapidly ageing society and significant levels of property wealth, later life mortgages can provide a path to a more comfortable retirement for homeowners via the untapped potential of housing equity.”

Matthew Drage, managing director at Square 4, added: "Joining the Equity Release Council marks an exciting step for us as an organisation. While our core focus remains on supporting businesses to grow and thrive across the evolving spectrum of conduct, financial crime, and operational risk, we are eager to contribute to the important work of the Council. 

“We believe that our expertise in compliance and operations will support firms to deliver great consumer outcomes, and will ultimately add value to the Council’s mission - to help more people responsibly unlock the value of their property. Ensuring the highest standards and best practices are upheld across the industry."