The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a consultation on amendments to the research provisions in the Markets in Financial Instruments II (MiFID II) Delegated Directive. This follows changes introduced by the Listing Act, which enables joint payments for execution services and research for all issuers. The Listing Act removes the restriction on market capitalization of issuers covered by the research. The consultation includes proposals to amend Article 13 of the MiFID II Delegated Directive to align it with the new payment option. ESMA's proposals aim to ensure that the annual assessment of research quality is based on robust criteria. The proposals also aim to ensure that the remuneration methodology for joint payments does not prevent firms from complying with best execution requirements. The consultation is primarily aimed at research providers, investment firms, and investors. ESMA will consider the feedback received to this consultation by 28 January 2025. The authority aims to provide its technical advice to the Commission in Q2 2025. The consultation is part of ESMA's efforts to protect investors and ensure the integrity of financial markets.