# FCA crypto regulation in the UK — what consumers need to know

Crypto exchanges must register with the FCA today under money laundering rules. From 25 October 2027, in-scope firms need full FCA authorisation. The FCA set final landmark rules on 30 June 2026 — covering capital, market integrity and stablecoins. Check the register before you send money. Crypto is high-risk and FSCS does not protect most holdings.

## Key facts
- Always check the FCA register before using an exchange.
- 30 June 2026: FCA final landmark crypto rules published.
- 25 October 2027: full authorisation regime in force.
- Since October 2023, most crypto adverts in the UK need FCA approval.
- Your crypto is not covered by the £85,000 bank deposit protection (FSCS).

## FCA registration under the Money Laundering Regulations

Firms conducting cryptoasset exchange, custody, or certain other activities in the UK must register with the FCA under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 (as amended). The FCA assesses whether firms have adequate AML systems and controls. Always check the FCA register before using a provider.
## Financial promotions regime

From 8 October 2023, firms cannot communicate crypto financial promotions to UK consumers unless the promotion is made or approved by an FCA-authorised person, or falls within a limited exemption. Promotions must be fair, clear and not misleading, and include prescribed risk warnings. This applies to websites, social media, apps and influencer content targeting UK consumers.
## What is not yet fully regulated

Until 25 October 2027, most crypto firm oversight is limited to financial promotions and anti-money laundering registration — not full FSMA authorisation. Parliament brought cryptoassets into the FCA remit in February 2026. On 30 June 2026 the FCA set final rules for the October 2027 regime, including capital requirements, market integrity and stablecoin standards.
## Landmark rules from October 2027

From 25 October 2027, trading platforms, custodians, intermediaries, stablecoin issuers and firms arranging staking must be FCA-authorised. Firms can apply between 30 September 2026 and 28 February 2027. Rules require financial resilience (capital and stress testing) and market integrity (including insider trading and manipulation). Consumer Duty applies where risks match other financial services.
## Consumer protections and FSCS

The FCA warns that cryptoassets are high-risk. If a firm fails, you generally cannot claim under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. You may have limited recourse through the Financial Ombudsman Service only where the firm is authorised for the relevant regulated activity.

## FAQs
### How do I check if a crypto firm is legitimate?

Search the FCA register for the firm's name and FRN. Use the FCA warning list to check for unauthorised firms.
### Are NFTs regulated by the FCA?

It depends on the NFT's characteristics. Some may fall outside financial regulation; others could be specified investments. The FCA assesses each case against its perimeter guidance.

## Sources

- [FCA — Cryptoassets for consumers](https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoassets)
- [FCA — Financial promotions regime for cryptoassets](https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/financial-promotions-regime-cryptoassets)
- [FCA — Landmark crypto rules (30 June 2026)](https://www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/fca-sets-landmark-crypto-rules-cement-uks-place-global-hub)
- [FCA — Register of cryptoasset firms](https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/financial-services-register)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/regulation/fca-crypto-rules/), reviewed 2026-06-30. Source: https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoassets