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The UK is stepping up as a crypto contender — with full-blown securities rules.
On April 29, Finance Minister Rachel Reeves introduced draft regulations that could make the UK a global hub for digital assets. The new rules would regulate crypto exchanges, custody, and staking under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Cryptoassets) Order 2025.
Unlike the EU’s lighter MiCA rules, the UK isn’t pulling punches. Crypto firms will face capital requirements, governance checks, and anti-abuse obligations—just like Wall Street players.
What’s changing?
FCA approval will be mandatory for crypto firms (even foreign ones) serving UK retail clients.
Staking, custody, and trading will become regulated activities.
Stablecoins are now treated as securities, not e-money.
Liquid staking, delegated staking, and even some lending protocols are in the crosshairs.
Industry insiders are mostly on board. Bitget’s COO calls it a “net positive,” saying the clarity helps them plan ahead. Circle’s CSO, Dante Disparte, said the UK is sending a strong message: responsible innovation is welcome here.
Challenges? Some DeFi models and lean projects may feel the heat from compliance costs. And proposed credit-card restrictions could slow retail adoption.
The final rules drop in 2026—but the UK’s message is already loud and clear: crypto is in, but only if it plays by the rules.
