FCA Final Crypto Rules: Framework & Feedback Deadline

Generally, I Think The FCA Is Taking A Big Step Forward, Launching A Consultation That Aims To Establish Clear Crypto Rules. Obviously, Starting September 2026, Firms Can Apply For A FSMA Authorisation, And The Whole Regime Kicks In October 2027, Which Is A Pretty Clear Timeline, But The Market Still Feels A Bit Uncertain About What’s Next.

A New Regulatory Era for Cryptoassets

Usually, You Would Expect The FCA To Take A More Cautious Approach, But This Time They’re Being Pretty Proactive, And I Think That’s A Good Thing. Essentially, The Market Has Been Waiting For Some Clarity On Crypto Regulations, And Now They’re Getting It, With A Clear Timeline And A Framework That Aims To Balance Innovation With Consumer Protection.

Key Requirements for Firms

Apparently, The Draft Says Firms Must Tighten Up Governance, Boost Operational Resilience, And Fight Financial Crime Aggressively, Which Is A Lot To Take In, But It’s Necessary. Normally, You Would Expect Firms To Follow The Consumer Duty, Which Is Basically About Fair Outcomes For Retail Users, But Now It’s Being Made Official. Existing Authorised Firms Will Have To Tweak Their Permissions, While AML-Registered Outfits Must Chase Full Authorisation – No Auto-Convert, They Warned, So It’s Going To Be A Bit Of A Challenge.

Scope of the Consultation

Interestingly, The FCA Wants Industry Voices On How To Map Current Rules Onto Crypto Businesses, Which Is A Great Opportunity For Firms To Provide Feedback. Typically, You Would Expect The FCA To Probe Topics Like Consumer Duty, Conduct Standards, Dispute Resolution, Safeguarding, Retail Collateral, Credit For Crypto Purchases, And Location Policy, And That’s Exactly What They’re Doing.

Supporting Innovation While Managing Risks

Generally, The FCA Rolled Out Early Proposals Back In December 2025, Trying To Line Crypto Up With Classic Finance Rules, Which Was A Good Starting Point. Normally, You Would Expect Those Ideas To Push For Clear Info, Proportionate Standards, And Flexibility For New Models, And That’s Exactly What Happened. Since Then, They’ve Also Looked At Stablecoins, Custody, Prudential Rules, Conduct Of Business, And Market Abuse, So It’s Been A Pretty Comprehensive Process.

Industry Feedback and Next Steps

Apparently, Responses Are Being Taken Until 12 March 2026 – So You Should Get Your Thoughts In Now, If You Haven’t Already. Usually, Crypto Firms, Consumer Groups, And Experts All Have A Seat At The Table, Which Is Great For Ensuring That Everyone’s Voice Is Heard. Essentially, Their Input Will Shape The Final Rules Before The 2027 Launch, So It’s A Pretty Important Process.