Authority invites feedback on proposed new fees

Feedback is being invited on proposed updates to the fees payable to the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority for 2026/27.

The intention is to increase most existing fees by 2.9% in line with the Island’s rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) in September 2025.

The Authority is also proposing a limited number of sector-specific changes, while further amendments are aimed at rebalancing the fee structure for designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs), as part of plans to enhance proportionality for smaller firms.

Fees that would be payable from 1 April 2026 by firms regulated or overseen by the Authority are set out in a consultation document published on the Government Engagement Hub today, Thursday 6 November 2025.

The proposals represent a further step towards embedding a sustainable approach to funding the financial services regulator that aligns with international best practice while being mindful of the Island’s competitive position.

The transition has been implemented over the past three years, with phased increases to annual fees being applied to move the Authority towards a predominantly industry-funded model.

The increase to fees in line with inflation for 2026/27 is intended to support the Authority’s ongoing work to meet the needs of a dynamic industry, while maintaining a lower level of government subvention.

The Authority has continued to listen to feedback during the funding transition, and some of the proposals in the consultation reflect comments received from industry bodies and individual businesses.

Views are also being sought on consolidating a number of different Fees Orders and Regulations into one Isle of Man Financial Services Authority (Fees) Order 2026 and including a mechanism to increase all fees by CPI inflation in future years, which would align with the wider Isle of Man Government approach.

Consultation responses can be submitted by email to Policy@iomfsa.im or in writing to Laura Muscutt, Manager – Policy & Risk, IOM Financial Services Authority, PO Box 58, Finch Hill House, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM99 1DT. The closing date for responses is Thursday 18 December 2025.

Bettina Roth, Chief Executive Officer at the Authority, said: ‘While the resources and costs associated with maintaining a robust regulatory environment continue to increase, we are also mindful of the challenges being faced by Island businesses. We believe the proposed changes and inflationary uplift strike the appropriate balance and will enable us to maintain a proportionate and competitive fee structure that accurately reflects the regulatory activities being carried out.’

She added: ‘We encourage an open dialogue with firms regarding fees, and the consultation includes proposals that have been developed in response to feedback from stakeholders, including industry bodies and some of our smaller businesses. For example, we are proposing a reduction of 34% in the annual fee for Type B and Type C DNFBPs with two employees, while another intended change follows positive collaboration between the Authority and the Isle of Man Wealth & Fund Services Association.’