Our approach to overseas market operators seeking to apply to become a recognised overseas investment exchange (ROIE)

Statements First published: Last updated: 04/08/2021
August 2021 update: We have published a revised direction regarding the manner in which applications for recognised overseas investment exchange (ROIE) status should be made. This replaces the temporary direction put in place in September 2018 to facilitate the transition when the UK left the EU. We have therefore updated this statement.

What has changed – August 2021

In September 2018, we published a direction clarifying our expectations of EEA market operators wishing to apply for recognised overseas investment exchange (ROIE) status in order to continue access to UK markets following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. To facilitate the transition, this direction streamlined the application requirements for EEA market operator applicants. Now that the UK has left the EU, we have updated the Application for ROIE Status Direction (PDF) to remove this temporary measure.  

The revised direction is effective from the date of publication and replaces the direction published on 14 September 2018. It may be amended by the FCA by further direction. The change does not affect current complete applications submitted by EEA market operators.

The revised direction

The Application for ROIE Status Direction clarifies our expectations for new applications by all overseas investment exchanges.  

Read the direction (PDF)

How to make an application 

The direction sets out the way an application must be made, for us to assess whether the recognition requirements have been met.

Overseas investment exchanges should contact [email protected] about making an application. 

As we explain in our Handbook, complete applications should be made not later than 6 months before the applicant wishes a ROIE recognition order to take effect.

The application should be accompanied by the fee to be considered complete.