Mixed reviews from advisers on FMA regulation

Financial advisers have given the Financial Markets Authority a mixed report card in its latest annual survey. There were areas of strong support, but some notable concerns about red tape and practical guidance.

The FMA's Ease of Doing Business Survey collected responses from 599 stakeholders across New Zealand's financial sector in August 2025, including 249 Financial Advice Providers with full licences and 151 other licence holders.

Confidence still high, but some areas over-regulated

Most advisers are confident in New Zealand's financial markets. Among FAP licence holders, 83% said they were confident in the markets overall, while 86% felt confident the markets are effectively regulated. Other licence holders showed similar levels at 80% and 86% respectively.