LEXLAW Solicitors & Barristers
Barclays Bank announced an £850 million provision for interest rate hedging product (swaps) mis-selling in 2012, with around 4,000 affected customers, approximately 3,000 deemed non-sophisticated. This suggests an average provision of £280,000 per customer. Lexlaw estimates that total liabilities for major banks, including Barclays and RBS, could reach several £billion pounds.
RBS was fined £87.5 million by the Financial Services Authority for manipulating the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), a key interest rate affecting trillions in derivatives contracts. This fraudulent activity, dating back to at least 2006, involved traders adjusting rates to benefit trading positions, causing losses to counterparties. This highlights serious cultural and oversight failures at RBS and other banks and will trigger increased LIBOR-related litigation.
The FSA’s pilot review of swaps mis-selling reveals over 90% of sales did not meet regulatory standards, highlighting inadequate risk explanation, undisclosed break costs, and over-hedging. Banks prioritised commissions over clients’ interests. The proposed review process raises concerns about reviewer independence and incomplete redress. Lexlaw advises court action before limitation periods expire.
Warren Buffett famously referred to derivatives as “financial weapons of mass destruction.” Lexlaw highlights the risks associated with derivatives and the importance of legal support for those affected by derivative mis-selling. If you have concerns about derivatives sold to you, contact Lexlaw for expert advice and assistance on protecting your interests.
The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) is preparing for an unprecedented workload in 2013/2014, driven mainly by 245,000 payment protection insurance (PPI) mis-selling cases. To handle this, FOS plans to increase staff significantly, including 1,000 new case workers and more ombudsmen. It will also raise individual case fees and increase the overall levy to support this expanded operation. Contact Lexlaw for advice on managing claims involving FOS processes and addressing complex financial disputes.
This judgment shows the complexity and fact-sensitive nature of swap mis-selling claims. The claimants were found to be experienced businessmen dealing with a straightforward swap, unlike many cases where claimants are less sophisticated and products are more complex. Key points include the importance of early document disclosure and careful handling of limitation periods. Specialist legal advice is essential to assess and manage swap mis-selling claims effectively. Contact Lexlaw for expert guidance and representation.
Green & Rowley v Royal Bank of Scotland plc EWHC 3661 (QB) is a High Court case involving claims by John Green and Paul Rowley against RBS. The case deals with disputes related to financial transactions and banking practices. For detailed legal insights and advice regarding this case or similar banking disputes, contact Lexlaw Solicitors for expert guidance and representation.
Major banks may suspend swap payments for financially distressed businesses while an independent review is conducted. Suspension is considered case-by-case and does not imply wrongdoing by the bank. Banks reserve their rights regarding suspended payments. Contact Lexlaw for expert help if you need support against UK Banks.
This landmark case involves claims by Graiseley Properties and Guardian Care Homes against Barclays Bank, alleging mis-selling of interest rate derivatives linked to LIBOR manipulation. It was the first English court case to address alleged fraudulent misrepresentation by Barclays related to LIBOR fixing. The case established precedents on implied misrepresentation and involved extensive evidence, including senior Barclays management. Legal experts are available to advise clients affected by such financial product mis-selling.
The review of Interest Rate Hedging Products, including Tailored Business Loans, by Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks in agreement with the Financial Services Authority. Customers who were not considered sophisticated at the time of sale shoul receive fair treatment and possible redress. The review is overseen. If you think this affects you, professional legal advice is available to protect your interests.