FCA Consultation CP26/4 Sets New UK Regulatory Framework for Crypto Firms to 2027

On January 31 2026, the UK Financial Conduct Authority released Consultation Paper CP26/4 setting out how its handbook will apply to newly regulated cryptoasset activities, including Consumer Duty, safeguarding, and complaints handling. The proposals would bring issuers, trading platforms, lenders, custodians, and international firms serving UK clients under stricter governance and client asset rules, with most global firms expected to use a UK legal entity. The consultation runs until 12 March 2026, with final rules expected later in 2026 and the regime due to take effect in October 2027 after an authorization gateway planned for September 2026.