Catenaa, Friday, Wednesday, September 19, 2025- Britain’s Financial Conduct Authority proposed easing key rules for crypto firms Wednesday, potentially exempting them from requirements ensuring integrity, skill, care, and prioritization of customer interests.
The consultation aims to help fast-growing digital asset platforms compete internationally, while maintaining consumer protection in a high-risk market.
The FCA said the move balances innovation, market integrity, and trust, emphasizing that risks for investors remain.
Companies would still face stricter operational risk standards, highlighted by the \$1.5 billion hack of Dubai-based Bybit earlier this year. The regulator is seeking feedback on whether the consumer duty, which mandates firms put customers first, and access to the Financial Ombudsman Service should apply to crypto firms.
David Geale, FCA executive director of payments and digital finance, said the proposals clarify expectations without removing risks, helping customers understand the high-risk nature of crypto investing.
The consultation, open until November 12, comes after Britain indicated cooperation with US authorities, following Washington’s rollback of crypto regulations under President Donald Trump.
Industry experts say the FCA’s proposals mark a pivotal step toward formal regulatory inclusion for digital assets, offering guidance for emerging platforms and potentially shaping Britain’s global position in the crypto sector.
About 12% of British adults currently own or have owned cryptocurrencies, up from 4% in 2021, illustrating growing market participation.
