News View Non-AMP

UK FCA to Introduce Stricter Crypto Regulations by 2026: What to Expect

Published by
Nidhi Kolhapur

The U.K. is gearing up for tougher crypto regulations, with just over a year left for the industry to prepare, revealed a senior official from the country’s financial regulator.

New Authorization Process For Crypto Companies

Matthew Long, director of payments and digital assets at the U.K.’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), shared in an interview with CoinDesk that the “gateway regime” set for 2026 will introduce a new authorization process for crypto companies.

“We will have a gateway which will allow authorization. But obviously we’ve got to go through those consultations, create those rules and get the legislation for that to take place,” Long noted.

Notably, the new regime will go beyond the current anti-money laundering (AML) rules. Crypto companies like Coinbase, Gemini, and Bitpanda will need to undergo a new approval process with the FCA, instead of just registering to comply with AML rules. This will involve meeting stricter requirements for a wider range of services they provide.

FCA to Finalize Crypto Rules by 2026

Besides, the FCA plans to release new papers this year on stablecoins, trading platforms, staking, and more. The full new crypto regulations are expected to be finalized in 2026, once the final policy papers are published.

Since opening its anti-money laundering (AML) register in 2020, the FCA has received 368 applications from firms looking to comply. However, only 50 of those firms, or 14%, have been approved. This means many companies may need to go through the process again under the new regime.

The U.K. is preparing new rules that will define which crypto activities need FCA approval. This includes things like stablecoin issuance, crypto payments, exchanges, and lending services.

FCA to Propose New Stablecoin Rules

Stablecoins won’t be regulated under the same rules as payments, as originally planned. Instead, the FCA will consult on new stablecoin rules later this year. Matthew Long noted that they’re working to adapt existing financial regulations to fit the unique nature of stablecoins.

The FCA is still finalizing the process for crypto companies to get authorized under the new regime. While it’s unclear what steps those already registered will need to take, the new rules will offer broader permissions. Companies may also need to reapply for approval. The FCA aims to launch the new regime as soon as possible, while also considering Europe’s regulations and IOSCO’s recommendations for best practices.

Nidhi Kolhapur

Nidhi is a Certified Digital Marketing Executive and Passionate crypto Journalist covering the world of alternative currencies. She shares the latest and trending news on Cryptocurrency and Blockchain.

Recent Posts

Anthony Pompliano’s ProCap BTC Acquires 3,724 Bitcoin Following a Strategic Merger With Columbus Circle

Anthony Pompliano’s ProCap BTC has acquired 3,724 Bitcoin for about $387 million to strengthen its…

June 25, 2025

Chainlink Partners With Mastercard to Boost Crypto Adoption: What’s Next for LINK Price?

Chainlink (LINK), an established decentralized oracle network, has announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard Inc.…

June 25, 2025

XRP Price Jumps 12%, Analyst Dark Defender Flags Danger Zones

The crypto market’s been volatile lately and XRP is no exception. Over the weekend, as…

June 24, 2025

What XRP Users Are Talking About This Week: Latest Rumors, Predictions & Debates

The XRP community is as fiery as ever, with price debates, predictions, and arguments lighting…

June 24, 2025

Nasdaq-Listed Nano Labs Plans to Buy $1B in BNB — Aiming for 10% Supply Takeover!

China-based Web3 firm Nano Labs is making a daring move by targeting Binance Coin (BNB).…

June 24, 2025

Bitcoin Price Holds Strong at $105K: Short Squeeze Ahead?

Bitcoin’s price held $105k in support on Tuesday, with reduced geopolitical tensions in the Middle…

June 24, 2025