EUROPE · JURISDICTION PROFILE
United Kingdom
Overview
The UK currently requires FCA registration of cryptoasset businesses for AML purposes and applies a strict financial-promotions regime to crypto marketing. A broader conduct regime, bringing crypto activities within the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA), is being introduced in stages through 2026–27, with the Bank of England leading on systemic stablecoins.
Regulatory framework
Today: MLR registration + financial-promotions rules. Coming: FSMA-based authorisation for exchange, custody, dealing and stablecoin activities.
Licensing & authorisation
Cryptoasset firms register with the FCA for AML; a full authorisation regime is being legislated.
AML & Travel Rule
The UK Money Laundering Regulations apply a Travel Rule to cryptoasset transfers.
Track developments
This jurisdiction is covered by the live wire — see the latest official items filtered to it.
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