COVER's best read stories of 2023 part 1: Deals, FCA warning and 40 years of CIC

Consolidation continued apace in the sector this year with a number of big deals reigniting competition concerns. Meanwhile, advisers and providers faced regulatory upheaval following the implementation of Consumer Duty in July with the Financial Conduct Authority now focused on reviewing progress. Our readers were also interested in new propositions and product enhancements unveiled this year, aimed at filling gaps in the market and meeting consumers' evolving needs. In the first of a two part series, here are some of the top stories from an eventful 2023.  Royal London buys ...