Understanding MiFID II for Content Creators

MiFID II isn't merely another regulatory box-tick. It's a comprehensive framework governing how investment firms operate, disclose information, and serve clients with emphasis on transparency, fairness, and investor protection.

Marketing content, including explainer video animation, falls under MiFID II's scrutiny when promoting financial products or services, particularly if influencing client decisions. Marketing teams often exclude explainer videos from compliance review workflows, treating them as creative assets rather than regulated communications—where risk begins.

Common MiFID II Red Flags in Explainer Videos

Imbalanced Risk-Benefit Framing

Animations often emphasise product benefits whilst failing to match this with risk disclaimers. This violates Article 24, which mandates fair, clear, and non-misleading communications.

Promotional Language That Overreaches

Words like 'safe,' 'guaranteed,' or 'outperform' can mislead, especially if unsupported by evidence or lacking proper context.

Visual Signals That Mislead

Even without words, visuals can breach compliance: graphs without labelled axes, arrows implying endless growth, or tick marks suggesting universal suitability can trigger regulatory review.

Non-Standard Disclaimers

Placing disclaimers in fine print at video endings isn't sufficient. Disclaimers need clear presentation in timing, legibility, and relevance to content discussed.

Untracked Assets

Under MiFID II, all marketing communications must be archived and retrievable for audit. Many firms fail applying recordkeeping systems to visual content.

What Compliance-Ready Animation Looks Like

A compliant explainer video uses measured, fact-based messaging; includes appropriate risk warnings; avoids speculative claims; presents data with full context; and passes compliance review workflows with minimal friction.

Why This Matters

Compliance becomes a market differentiator. Clear, compliant content builds trust, reduces review bottlenecks, and protects long-term credibility. With MiFID II's investor protection focus, firms communicating with clarity and fairness retain clients better and increase product adoption.

When explainer videos are designed—not retrofitted—with compliance in mind, they become strategic assets demonstrating operational maturity and regulatory alignment.

In finance, complexity isn't the problem; confusion is. Clear, compliant visuals solve it.