The UK's Financial Conduct Authority is asking firms to register for its online Connect platform. They have to send it their details in the form of a mandatory annual update from January onwards, but the regulator would like them to register now in preparation.

The FCA will be emailing, calling and writing to firms that are not yet using Connect to encourage them to sign up before the deadline. It will also give them the information (including registration numbers) that they need to register. Firms can call 0300 500 0597 during business hours.

From January onwards, every firm will have to update and confirm the accuracy of information about it in line with its Accounting Reference Date (ARD) by means of Connect. Even if the details are the same as those of the previous year, it will still have to log on and confirm them.

Connect also allows it to submit applications and notifications (such as those regarding the appointment of approved persons, appointed representatives and MiFID II) and to track the progress of its applications.