Jes Staley Challenges FCA Ban Over Jeffrey Epstein Ties in High-Profile Trial

The former Barclays CEO contests a lifetime ban and £1.8m fine, as court hears allegations of misleading regulators about his relationship with Epstein.

Jes Staley, former Barclays CEO, is appealing a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) decision that banned him from senior financial roles and fined him £1.8m over alleged misrepresentation of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Barclays chairman Nigel Higgins reportedly pressed then-FCA chief Andrew Bailey to expedite the investigation to avoid public disclosure, raising concerns about its impact on the bank and Staley's personal life.
The FCA investigation was triggered by over 1,200 emails between Staley and Epstein, including exchanges referencing Disney characters, which regulators argued suggested a closer relationship than Staley disclosed.
Staley's defense cited his dyslexia as a factor in potential misunderstandings, arguing he had no motive to mislead regulators about the nature of his connection with Epstein.
The trial, which has revealed internal discussions at Barclays and the FCA, is set to continue, with Staley and Higgins expected to testify next week.