The FCA has banned a pair of father and son brokers from working in financial services after they were found guilty of fraud. Their actions left AFL burdened with a significant client money deficit, the FCA said. In August 2020, the buyer of AFL began High Court proceedings against Alec Finch and Robert Finch for loss and damages, with the allegations centring on fraud by the Finches. Both Alec Finch and Robert Finch avoided a fine by providing evidence that a financial penalty would cause them serious financial hardship. They painted a false picture of a successful business and used client money for their own benefit – which they knew was wrong.