Computers In The City

The FCA has expanded its AI Live Testing programme, with major financial firms testing systems under regulatory oversight. It is a useful UK example of AI moving from theory into controlled real-world use, where monitoring, risk management and assurance are built in from the start.

UK banking regulator announces expanded AI testing cohort The Financial Conduct Authority has selected eight firms including Barclays, Experian, Lloyds Banking Group and UBS to join the second cohort of its AI Live Testing programme, with trials beginning in April 2026

The FCA is defending its Palantir contract before lawmakers, keeping questions about public sector AI, data handling and vendor dependence firmly in view.

Britain's FCA defends Palantir contract award before lawmakers U.S. data analytics firm Palantir, which won a contract to supply AI systems ​to Britain's Financial Conduct Authority, will not have access to regulatory intelligence, an FCA official ‌said on Tuesday, as the deal came under criticism from lawmakers.

Small businesses are set to benefit from more than £7.4bn in government spending targets by 2028, with ministers promising better access to contracts. For SMEs, the real question is whether the procurement process becomes simpler as well as larger.

Small Businesses To Benefit From £7.4bn Government Targets Government departments are set to spend more directly with SMEs in a move aiming to create jobs, boost the economy, and support struggling businesses.