UK's New Crypto Regulations: A 24-Hour Deadline That Could Catch Firms Off Guard

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority has unveiled proposed crypto regulations that could broaden the definition of custody, potentially ensnaring platforms and software providers who do not consider themselves custodians. The FCA's Cryptoasset Perimeter Guidance, published on Wednesday, outlines several technical traps for firms handling clients' crypto assets. A key provision draws a line at the 24-hour mark for custody, whereby any firm or crypto platform holding client assets for more than a day during trade settlement will likely be classified as a regulated custodian, requiring a full safeguarding license. Validators and node operators must also exercise caution, as the regulator warned that providing 'added value' features, such as user dashboards or yield tools, will result in the loss of their pure tech exemption, necessitating full approval for arranging staking. The FCA stated that its new perimeter provides the tools to strengthen consumer protections and support fair, transparent, and orderly markets as the sector matures. Notably, the regulator has addressed the 'shadow custody' issue, clarifying that if a crypto service provider can theoretically override a client's authority, it is considered a custodian, even if it guarantees it will never exert that power. The document emphasizes that the use of smart contracts, public blockchains, or decentralization elements does not determine the perimeter position or place the arrangement outside of regulation. For stablecoin issuers, the mandate is clear: issuance is only legal if the issuer is established in the UK and manages the entire lifecycle, including the initial offering, redemption, and reserve maintenance. The FCA is seeking views on these proposals until June 3, 2026, and intends to publish finalized rules in policy statements this summer, followed by the final perimeter guidance in September. The roadmap requires all entities providing crypto services to transition from the current money-laundering registration systems to a stricter approval regime under the UK's Financial Services and Markets Act. Firms intending to continue operating under the new regulations face a five-month application window from September 30, 2026, to February 28, 2027, and failure to meet this deadline may result in fines, suspensions, or permanent closures. Only those who apply during the application period will benefit from the 'savings provisions' that allow them to continue operating while the regulator deliberates.