Financial services consultancy and operations specialist Square 4 has joined the Equity Release Council (ERC).
Square 4 helps firms manage compliance, regulatory challenges, and enhance their operations.
Square 4 was recently recognised by the International Compliance Association, which named it Compliance Consultancy Firm of the Year in 2024.
The firm’s advisory, resourcing, and learning services apply across various sectors, such as banking, insurance, investments, pensions, and equity release.
Square 4 also introduced a Consumer Duty Board Report Guide to help firms meet regulatory expectations and demonstrate commitment to improving customer outcomes.
The ERC’s membership includes all active lifetime mortgage providers in the UK, Ireland, and Canada, alongside more than 750 member firms, from financial advisers to solicitors and surveyors.
Jim Boyd (pictured), CEO of the Equity Release Council, said: “As the newest member of the Equity Release Council, Square 4 joins a number of consultancies that are committed to upholding the highest standards within the later life sector.
“Their decision to join the Council demonstrates the opportunity and continued evolution of the equity release sector that embraces innovation to deliver the best outcomes for customers.
“With a rapidly ageing society and significant levels of property wealth, later life mortgages can provide a path to a more comfortable retirement for homeowners via the untapped potential of housing equity.”
Matthew Drage, managing director at Square 4, said: “Joining the Equity Release Council marks an exciting step for us as an organisation.
“While our core focus remains on supporting businesses to grow and thrive across the evolving spectrum of conduct, financial crime, and operational risk, we are eager to contribute to the important work of the Council.
“We believe that our expertise in compliance and operations will support firms to deliver great consumer outcomes and will ultimately add value to the Council’s mission – to help more people responsibly unlock the value of their property.
“Ensuring the highest standards and best practices are upheld across the industry.”
