The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued news guidance to help firms understand how the law underpinning the UK’s future cryptoasset regime applies to their business ahead of full regulation taking effect on 25 October 2027. According to a press release published by the Financial Conduct Authority, applications for authorisation will open on 30 September 2026.
Scope of the FCA Guidance
The guidance outlines specific activities that may require formal FCA authorisation under the upcoming regime. These activities include issuing qualifying stablecoins, operating cryptoasset trading platforms, dealing and arranging deals, safeguarding cryptoassets, and arranging cryptoasset staking.
David Geale, executive director of consumers, payments and competition at the FCA, stated: “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.”
Targeted Legal Changes and Next Steps
The guidance follows legislation introduced by the UK Government in February 2026 to bring cryptoassets into UK regulation, alongside final rules established in June 2026. The Government has also introduced targeted changes to the law, including limited exclusions and further clarity for certain technical services providers.
The FCA confirmed it will consult in October on targeted updates to this guidance in light of these legal changes. The consultation will cover topics such as UK qualifying stablecoins, proprietary trading and market making, technical providers, decentralised protocols, safeguarding arrangements involving central securities depositaries, and financial promotions.
Preparing for Authorisation
To assist firms ahead of the gateway opening on 30 September 2026, the FCA is offering pre-application support meetings and webinars to help businesses navigate handbook requirements and prudential frameworks. This initiative follows ongoing regulatory updates, including joint rules on stablecoins established by the Bank of England and the FCA.
Main picture: Photo by Aditya Chinchure on Unsplash
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