The UK crypto industry has reached a “significant milestone” after the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) confirmed new rules for firms operating in the sector.

From October 2027, crypto firms will need to meet tougher standards on financial resilience, market integrity and consumer protection. The regime will apply to trading platforms, intermediaries, custodians, stablecoin issuers and firms arranging staking.

Under the new framework, these firms will need FCA authorisation to operate in the UK. Applications will open from 30 September 2026 and close on 28 February 2027, giving firms time to prepare before the rules become mandatory.

The FCA said the measures follow a series of consultations and are designed to make the regime workable in practice. Changes include simpler capital requirements for stablecoin firms and trading rules that better reflect how crypto markets operate.

Stablecoins, which are crypto assets designed to hold a stable value, usually by being linked to a currency such as sterling or the US dollar, will be subject to clearer standards. The FCA said this should help build trust in how they are used over time.

The new regime will also introduce market abuse rules covering areas such as insider dealing and market manipulation. Further guidance has been issued on inside information, legitimate market practice, best execution and how firms should monitor trading activity.

Firms safeguarding qualifying crypto assets will face dedicated client asset rules, reflecting the specific risks in the sector.

Until October 2027, the FCA’s oversight remains limited to financial promotions and anti-money laundering controls.

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