1. Purpose
This policy sets out the governance principles, engagement standards, and operational framework under which Islamic Finance Review Ltd (“IFR”) delivers consultancy and advisory services.
The objective of this policy is to ensure that all consultancy engagements are conducted ethically, professionally, and in compliance with applicable UK laws and regulatory standards.
2. Scope of Consultancy Services
Islamic Finance Review Ltd provides research-based and strategic advisory services in the following areas:
- Islamic finance strategy and structuring
- Shariah governance frameworks
- Islamic fintech advisory
- Institutional policy development
- Academic and curriculum advisory
- Research and white paper development
IFR provides institutional-level consultancy only.
3. Regulatory Position
Islamic Finance Review Ltd does not provide:
- Regulated financial advice
- Investment management services
- Retail investment recommendations
- Client money handling services
- Activities requiring authorisation by the Financial Conduct Authority
Where regulated advice is required, clients must obtain advice from an FCA-authorised firm.
4. Engagement Structure
All consultancy engagements shall be governed by:
- A written engagement letter or consultancy agreement
- Defined scope of work
- Agreed deliverables
- Clear fee structure
- Confidentiality terms
- Payment schedule
No advisory work shall commence without written confirmation of engagement terms.
5. Independence & Conflict of Interest
Islamic Finance Review Ltd maintains professional independence in all advisory engagements.
Prior to accepting any consultancy assignment, IFR shall:
- Conduct an internal conflict-of-interest assessment
- Disclose any material conflict to the client
- Decline engagement where independence may be compromised
6. Confidentiality & Data Protection
IFR is committed to maintaining strict confidentiality of client information.
All consultancy engagements shall comply with:
- UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR)
- Data Protection Act 2018
Client information will be used solely for the purposes of the agreed consultancy engagement.
7. Professional Standards
All consultancy services are delivered in accordance with:
- Academic integrity standards
- Ethical governance principles
- Shariah compliance considerations (where applicable)
- Good industry practice
IFR operates on a research-led advisory model and does not guarantee commercial outcomes.
8. Limitation of Liability
Islamic Finance Review Ltd provides strategic advisory services based on research, analysis and professional judgment.
IFR shall not be liable for:
- Commercial losses
- Investment performance outcomes
- Regulatory decisions made by third parties
- Implementation risks undertaken by clients
Liability shall be limited to the extent set out in the consultancy agreement.
9. Intellectual Property
Unless otherwise agreed in writing:
- IFR retains intellectual property rights in methodologies, frameworks and research materials.
- Clients may use deliverables for internal institutional purposes.
Ownership terms shall be clarified in the engagement agreement.
10. Complaints Procedure
Any concerns regarding consultancy services should be submitted in writing to:
admin@islamicfinancereview.co.uk
IFR will acknowledge complaints within 7 working days and aim to respond within 21 working days.
11. Policy Review
This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with legal, regulatory and institutional developments.