Update: 25.10.2026, 15:26.
Since 30 September 2026, the UK’s financial regulator, the FCA, has been accepting authorisation applications from crypto firms. The new rules will apply from 25 October 2027. We explain who they affect, what the deadlines are and what it means for people who buy cryptoassets in the UK.
The facts
- In February 2026 legislation came in that brought cryptoassets under FCA supervision.
- On 30 June 2026 the FCA published its final rules.
- Application window: from 30 September 2026 to 28 February 2027 .
- The new mandatory regime comes into force on 25 October 2027 . Until then the FCA supervises only financial promotions and anti-money laundering in crypto.
- Authorisation will be needed by, among others, trading platforms, intermediaries, cryptoasset custodians, stablecoin issuers and firms arranging staking.
- Firms must hold adequate capital and pass resilience tests. Rules against insider dealing and market manipulation will be introduced.
Timeline
8 October 2023 – mandatory rules on cryptoasset promotions in the UK
February 2026 – cryptoassets under FCA supervision
30 June 2026 – final FCA rules
30 September 2026 – applications open
28 February 2027 – application window closes
25 October 2027 – new regime applies
TBT analysis – conclusions
The UK is moving from supervising “only advertising” to full authorisation. Some smaller firms will not meet the capital requirements and will withdraw from the UK market before October 2027.
The FCA cautions, however, that risk cannot be “regulated away”. Authorisation means supervision of the firm, not a guarantee that an investment in cryptoassets will pay off.
Risks
- Until 25.10.2027 most crypto services in the UK do not have full regulatory protection.
- Firms that are not authorised may close down – you would then need to move your funds.
- Fraudsters pose as “registered” platforms.
What it means for you
If you buy cryptoassets in the UK: check your platform on the FCA register and watch whether it applies for authorisation by 28 February 2027.
If you run a crypto-related business: assess with a lawyer whether your activity requires authorisation, and do not leave your application to the last few weeks.
What to watch next
- A further FCA statement on the scope of the rules (promised for September 2026).
- The list of firms that apply and are authorised.
- Rules on stablecoins in the UK.
Sources
- FCA – FCA sets landmark crypto rules (30.06.2026) – primary source
- FCA – Cryptoassets: information for firms – primary source
- LeapRate – FCA opens application window – supporting source
We assess factual corrections and substantive responses. Verified changes are reflected in our reporting.
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