UK FCA Issues 146 Alerts on Day One of Crypto Promotion Rules

UK Regulators Fire Off 146 Crypto Violation Alerts on First Day of New Promotion Rules

Written & Edited by
Kyle Baird

10 November 2023 06:55 UTC

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued 146 alerts on crypto malpractice on day one of new regulations.
The FCA's 32-page guide aims to ensure crypto promotions are "fair, clear and not misleading," reflecting the sector's dynamism.
Critics argue that treating cryptocurrencies as regulated investments could create a "halo effect," misleading investors.

In a bid to regulate crypto, the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued 146 alerts identifying malpractice on the first day of new promotion regulations. The FCA’s proactive approach is seen as a significant stride towards curbing the excesses of crypto investment promotions.

The FCA’s recently published handbook provides a comprehensive framework for crypto firms’ promotion of digital assets.

New UK Crypto Promotion Rules in Full Effect

The 32-p a ge guide aims to ensure promotions are “fair, clear and not misleading” while acknowledging the evolving nature of the crypto market. It also indicates potential future modifications to the rules, reflecting the dynamic nature of the sector.

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The FCA’s tough stance comes despite pressure for leniency from a minister, as reported by the Financial Times. The regulator estimates that nearly 5 million British adults owned crypto assets as of August 2022. The introduction of the new rules aims to protect these investors, who may regret making hasty decisions to invest in crypto.

Percentage of UK adults owning crypto | Source: FCA — Percentage of UK adults owning crypto. Source: FCA

James Daley, managing director of Fairer Finance, hailed the FCA’s move as a “good moment” to instate “proper regulation.” He stated,

“At least now the marketing of it is regulated and that means that the FCA has been issuing warnings and ensuring that misinformation is stopped.”

Laith Khalaf, head of investment analysis at AJ Bell, echoed Daley’s sentiments. Khalaf stated the FCA was definitely “making progress” on regulating cryptocurrency. He warned that a significant minority of investors had put “too much money” into these currencies based on “very unrealistic expectations.” He added that he hoped better regulation would benefit these individuals.

Critics Speak Out

However, the FCA’s decision to regulate the marketing of cryptocurrency investments has sparked controversy.

Critics argue that treating cryptocurrencies as regulated investments could create a “halo effect.” This means that investors may take them more seriously due to the regulator’s apparent approval.

Despite these concerns, some cryptocurrency investment platforms have welcomed the tighter rules. Luno, for instance, paused the sign-up of new UK customers and introduced a test for existing customers to ensure they understood the risks of their investment. The company hailed the new rules as an,

“Important step for the crypto industry.”

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