UK regulators launch consultation on new cryptocurrency rules.

According to Reuters, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched a broad consultation on a series of proposed rules for the cryptocurrency industry on Tuesday. This comes a day after the UK government announced it would begin regulating the industry from October 2027. Along with its proposals, the FCA also released a research report showing that the proportion of UK adults holding cryptocurrency has fallen by a third over the past year, from 12% to 8%. The FCA stated on Tuesday that its rules will cover the listing of crypto assets, measures to prevent insider trading and manipulation, standards for cryptocurrency trading platforms, and brokerage rules. The agency is also consulting on prudential requirements, regulations to make cryptocurrency staking risks clearer, better protection for both lenders and borrowers in the cryptocurrency market, and potential financial safeguards for crypto companies to manage risk. The FCA is seeking feedback on its proposals until February 12, 2026. The regulator has pledged to finalize the regulatory framework by the end of next year.