A primary objective of the regulatory authorities is to ensure that consumers and investors are suitably protected. Appropriate protection of consumers and investors is a vital element of a well-functioning market economy, and the regulatory authorities agree that every consumer and investor must be treated fairly, especially those who are most vulnerable.

The regulatory authorities will ensure that financial services firms put in place processes that help them to better understand the needs of their customers, as well as adequate systems to resolve disputes constructively and in a timely manner. Consumer and investor protection will be enhanced through the introduction of a deposit insurance mechanism. Consumers and investors will also be protected from unauthorised and unlicensed financial service providers through strict enforcement of the law. Confidentiality of customer information also needs to be maintained and the rules of information-sharing will be clearly spelt out.