The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has published new guidance to help firms understand how the law underpinning the UK’s future cryptoasset regime applies to their business.
Specifically operators of cryptoasset trading platforms, dealers and firms arranging deals in cryptoassets will be impacted.The regime comes into force on 25 October 2027, with applications for authorisation opening from 30 September 2026.
The new guidance aims to give firms early sight of which activities, including operating trading platforms and dealing or arranging deals in cryptoassets,fall within the FCA’s authorisation perimeter.
David Geale, executive director of consumers, payments and competition at the FCA, said: “We are building a crypto regime that firms, consumers and international partners can trust. Getting ready for regulation starts with understanding how the regime applies to your business.
“This guidance gives firms the clarity they’ve asked for so they can prepare with confidence.”
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The key activities covered include: operating cryptoasset trading platforms, and dealing and arranging deals in cryptoassets, alongside issuing qualifying stablecoins, safeguarding cryptoassets and arranging cryptoassetstaking.
The guidance aligns with the FCA’s wider work to prepare for the new regime, including finalising rules and guidance as part of its cryptoassets regime policy statements in June 2026.
Separately, the government has also made targeted changes to the law, including limited exclusions and further clarity for certain technical services providers.
The FCA predicts these changes will not affect most crypto firms, who can leverage the guidance to prepare for authorisation.
The regulatory body has confirmed that it will consult in October on targeted updates to the guidance considering the legal changes.