UK FCA Finalizes Crypto Rules for Trading and Stablecoin Firms

The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has finalized crypto rules that will require covered firms to obtain authorization starting Oct. 25, 2027, including trading, custody and stablecoin businesses. The FCA’s authorization window for crypto firms runs from Sept. 30, 2026, through Feb. 28, 2027. Existing anti-money-laundering registrations will not convert automatically, so firms holding them still must apply. The framework covers crypto trading platforms, custodians, stablecoin issuers, lending and staking providers, and some decentralized finance businesses with identifiable controlling entities. Trading platforms must conduct due diligence, meet admission standards and publish disclosure documents for assets admitted to trading.