LONDON, April 15, 2026 — The Financial Conduct Authority launched a consultation on proposed guidance for the United Kingdom’s future cryptoasset regulatory regime, seeking industry feedback on how firms should assess whether their activities fall within the scope of regulation.
The consultation forms part of the FCA’s wider programme to implement the UK crypto framework ahead of the regime taking effect in October 2027, according to a statement issued Wednesday.
Crypto firms will be able to begin applying for authorisation from September 2026, with the FCA saying it is providing firms with support on how to prepare applications and understand how the future framework could operate.
The regulator said the consultation seeks feedback on its interpretation of several proposed regulated cryptoasset activities, including issuing qualifying stablecoins, operating trading platforms, dealing and arranging deals in qualifying cryptoassets, safeguarding cryptoassets, and staking.
Scope clarification ahead of rule launch
The FCA said the consultation follows legislation approved by Parliament setting out which cryptoasset activities will fall within the regulatory perimeter, with the new guidance intended to help firms determine whether they may be captured by the regime.
The authority said policy statements covering the broader crypto rulemaking programme are expected this summer, while a final policy statement on perimeter guidance is due in the autumn.
The consultation closes on June 3, 2026.
Next phase of UK crypto regime
The FCA said later this year it also plans to consult on guidance relating to decentralized finance, operational resilience for firms using distributed ledger technology, and updates to the Financial Crime Guide relevant to cryptoasset businesses.
Until the new regime enters into force, cryptoassets in the UK remain regulated mainly for financial promotions and financial crime purposes, rather than under a comprehensive sector-specific framework.
The proposed guidance supports the FCA’s stated objective of promoting an open, sustainable and competitive crypto market that consumers can trust.
