By Rashmi Pandya, FCCA
The Government has been clear in its ambition to position the UK as one of the most attractive destinations in the world for overseas investment.
However, the question is no longer whether investors are interested in the UK, but how easily they can understand its regulatory obligations.
In October 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a new investment fast-track, including the creation of a regulatory one-stop shop for overseas financial firms.
The one-stop shop is set to clarify regulations and drive growth and UK businesses must understand how this can benefit them.
What changes will this fast track bring?
One of the UK’s challenges for international investment has been the lack of a single point of contact for overseas firms.
Compared to other jurisdictions, the system can be hard for first-time investors to understand the regulatory framework.
The Government has introduced the Office for Investment: Financial Services (OfI:FS) to support global financial services firms looking to set up or expand in the UK.
The service is free and delivered in partnership with HM Treasury, the Office for Investment, the City of London and regulators such as the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
However, the reforms are not limited to London and focus on future investment across all regions.
They represent the growing recognition that more than half of the UK’s 1.2 million financial service jobs are based outside the capital.
Why does this matter for UK businesses?
When overseas firms enter the UK market, they bring opportunities for partnerships, acquisitions, joint ventures and capital investments.
International investors moving through the fast-track process may expect UK businesses to be investment ready.
That means having reliable financial reporting, robust internal controls, well-documented ownership structures and an understanding of tax and regulatory obligations is needed.
Businesses that cannot demonstrate this may be at risk of being overlooked in favour of more prepared competitors.
How can we help you prepare?
If you are wanting to grow your business and attract foreign investment, you must prepare for thorough due diligence and cross-border implications.
We work with businesses to review their financial and tax position and spot any risks before they arise.
Our team can help your business understand how the reforms, such as the Government’s one-stop shop, may affect your investors’ expectations.
As the UK strives for greater investment opportunities, businesses that act now will be more prepared for international growth.
Need advice on how to prepare your company for global investment? Contact our team today.