FCA opens UK crypto licensing gateway, sets February 28, 2027 application deadline
TL;DR: The FCA opened its crypto authorisation gateway on September 30. Firms serving UK customers and intending to continue must apply by February 28, 2027. The broader regime takes effect on October 25, 2027.
Scope and regulatory expectations
The FCA’s new framework requires firms to demonstrate compliance across safeguarding of client assets, market integrity, consumer protection and financial resilience. Registration under anti-money-laundering rules does not satisfy the new approval requirements. International groups must determine which UK-facing activities require permissions under the regime.
Operational implications for firms
Commercial impacts may arise before formal implementation. Firms must plan capital, staffing, systems and application processes while continuing to serve customers. Platforms need to align internal controls and governance with the incoming standards during the application window.
Investor considerations
A licence application is not an authorisation. Approvals in other jurisdictions do not automatically meet the FCA’s standards. Key signals in the near term: which firms submit applications on time, the permissions they seek and whether their operating models can pass the FCA’s review.
Key dates
- Gateway opened: September 30
- Application deadline for firms intending to continue operating: February 28, 2027
- Regime start date: October 25, 2027
Authors credited by the source: NewsBTC Editorial Team
Published by Holder based on an external source.
