Odey, Woodford & the FCA

(mis)Conduct, Money & Reputation

Reputation in financial services is complex, shaped by audience perception and regulatory scrutiny. In this episode, Neil Robson and David Masters dive into the scandals surrounding Crispin Odey and Neil Woodford, exploring how they have not only damaged their personal standings but also raised fundamental questions about trust in the system.

While Odey’s primary audience - high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors - may have already distanced themselves, Woodford faces a different challenge, hoping to rebuild credibility with retail investors. But is redemption even possible?

And beyond the individuals, the regulator itself is under fire. The FCA has faced increasing criticism, with concerns over its handling of non-financial misconduct and its true priorities. Reports from the APPG on Fairer Financial Services and leadership departures at the CMA and FOS add to the uncertainty. Is the FCA truly serving consumers, or is its focus elsewhere? And can trust in financial services ever fully recover?

Recorded and produced at the Lansons Studios

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This podcast contains discussions around sensitive topics, including sexual assault, abuse, and other potentially distressing subjects. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised, please consider seeking support from a trusted organisation or professional.

Chapters

1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Recap of Odey Asset Management Scandal (00:01:03)

3. Impact on Reputation and Business (00:03:47)

4. Odey & Woodford Reputation Parallels (00:06:36)

5. The Role of the Regulators (00:10:08)

6. All-Party Parliamentary Group Report (00:12:43)

7. FCA’s Response to Criticism (00:16:20)

8. Whistleblowing and Regulatory Failures (00:17:27)

9. Consumer Protection and Regulatory Effectiveness (00:22:25)

10. Future of Regulatory Framework (00:25:42)