1. BS 8453 – Financial Services Compliance Standard
Pioneering ‘Best Practice’, Standards International have a globally recognized
reputation for independence, integrity and innovation in Financial Services
certification that promote and share best practice.
What is BS 8453?
BS 8453 Financial Services Compliance has been developed by industry and BSI for the regulated financial
services sector – the standard sets out a framework for managing regulatory compliance. The standard
specifies established good practice and processes for operating an effective compliance programme.
A benchmark of Best Practice
• BS 8453 seeks to benchmark good practice for operating an effective compliance programme, and
compliance with the standard could help firms to meet their regulatory obligations more easily (and
to lower compliance risk).
• BS 8453 has been positioned to complement existing regulation and terminology, but allows firms to
independently benchmark against a recognised framework.
• The Financial Services Authority may take into account compliance with the standard but will not discount
firms who do not adopt it.
• The standard is applicable across the whole regulated sector (wholesale, retail, investment).
What are the benefits of certification to BS 8453?
• Gaining independent certification against the standard is not mandatory, although being able to demonstrate
conformity will provide assurance that the firm operates a robust compliance framework.
• Provides recognition of the compliance policies and procedures. Promotes and demonstrates a
compliance culture.
• Independent and impartial certification may identify opportunities to improve professionalism within
the organisation.
• Your organisation could potentially be in a stronger position in respect of the regulatory bodies as
the Financial Services Authority may take into account compliance with the standard during visits.
Route to certification
Demonstrate a commitment to high standards of compliance and stand out from the crowd
in four simple steps.
Standards International is pioneering best practice by offering certification to BS 8453.
To be one of the first organisations in the UK to be certified to BS 8453, please contact
enquiries@standardsinternational.co.uk or call +44 (0)1462 790894.