Ex-Barclays CEO Staley challenges FCA ban over Epstein ties

Former Barclays CEO Jes Staley is appealing a ban from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) that prohibits him from holding senior financial roles due to his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Staley argues that Barclays was aware of the nature of his ties with Epstein when it submitted a letter to the FCA in 2019, which he claims contained misleading statements about their relationship. The FCA's investigation, sparked by information from JPMorgan, found that Staley was in contact with Epstein shortly before he joined Barclays in 2015. During the appeal, which features testimonies from notable financial figures, Staley will contest the allegations of integrity violations and a £1.8 million fine imposed by the FCA. The case not only centers on Staley's connections to Epstein but also scrutinizes the FCA's regulatory practices in holding executives accountable. The hearing is expected to last several weeks, with Staley undergoing cross-examination starting March 11.