Non-compliance with the Senior Manager Regime (SMR) can have serious consequences for financial institutions, both in terms of regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The SMR is a set of regulations introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom to hold senior managers accountable for their areas of responsibility and prevent regulatory breaches.

One of the major risks of non-compliance with the SMR is the imposition of regulatory penalties. Financial institutions that fail to comply with the SMR can face significant fines and penalties, including large fines for regulatory breaches, compensation payments, and the costs of rectifying any harm caused to customers. These penalties can be substantial and can have a significant impact on a financial institution's financial stability and reputation.

Another risk of non-compliance with the SMR is reputational damage. Financial institutions that fail to comply with the SMR can harm their reputation and undermine public trust and confidence in the sector. This can lead to a loss of customers, reduced share prices, and a decrease in investor confidence. Furthermore, a negative reputation can be difficult and costly to repair, making it essential for financial institutions to ensure that they are fully compliant with the SMR.

Non-compliance with the SMR can also lead to increased regulatory scrutiny. Financial institutions that fail to comply with the SMR can expect increased regulatory attention and a higher likelihood of enforcement action. This can lead to increased regulatory burdens and the need to devote significant resources to ensuring compliance with the SMR.

Finally, non-compliance with the SMR can also have a negative impact on a financial institution's ability to attract and retain senior managers. Financial institutions that are not fully compliant with the SMR may find it difficult to attract high-quality senior managers, who may be concerned about the regulatory and reputational risks associated with non-compliance.

In conclusion, non-compliance with the Senior Manager Regime carries significant risks for financial institutions. The imposition of regulatory penalties, reputational damage, increased regulatory scrutiny, and difficulties in attracting and retaining senior managers are all potential consequences of non-compliance. By ensuring that they are fully compliant with the SMR, financial institutions can minimize these risks and improve their chances of success in the financial services sector.