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Ripple has secured a regulatory footing in the United Kingdom as it builds out its global payments network. The company’s local subsidiary, Ripple Markets UK Ltd, gained registration with the Financial Conduct Authority under the UK Money Laundering Regulations and also obtained Electronic Money Institution authorization.
The approval lands as the UK prepares a broader crypto licensing reset. The FCA expects an application gateway to open in September 2026. The new regime should start on October 25, 2027.
The FCA register also shows Ripple Markets UK holds an Electronic Money Institution authorization. That status supports regulated payment services and e-money activity under FCA supervision, which can matter for institutional payment flows.
In addition, the money laundering registration signals compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing controls. As a result, Ripple can conduct certain crypto-related activities in Britain through a supervised entity, while the FCA continues ongoing oversight.
The FCA entry does not provide full authorization for every crypto product. It confirms financial crime controls and payment permissions within a defined scope. Consequently, Ripple may need extra approvals before broader consumer services.
FCA records also set tight operating conditions. Ripple Markets UK cannot run crypto ATMs, start retail services, or appoint agents or distributors without prior written FCA consent.
The register also restricts issuing electronic money or providing payment services to consumers, micro-enterprises, or charities at this stage. Ripple’s near-term pathway in the UK looks geared toward wholesale and institutional relationships.
Market pricing showed a limited response. XRP traded near $2.10 around the update, with reports noting small intraday moves. Even so, the regulatory step can influence partner due diligence in practice.
The FCA has outlined a new cryptoasset regime that moves beyond anti-money laundering registration. Under the plan, firms will need authorization under the Financial Services and Markets Act. They will also need permissions for each regulated cryptoasset activity.
To manage volumes, the FCA expects to open a defined “application period” in September 2026. The agency says the window must last at least 28 days. It must also close at least 28 days before the regime begins.
The FCA has also made a key point for existing registrants. Firms already on the Money Laundering Regulations register will still need to apply under the new framework. Current registrations will not roll over automatically.
If a firm applies in time, it may operate under transitional arrangements while the FCA assesses the application. However, firms that miss the gateway can face limits, including constraints on launching new services.
Also Read: Crypto Market Today: UK FCA Reverses Ban, Musk Teams with Polymarket, Swiss Share Tax Data
The FCA has started consultations to shape the rulebook that will cover the new regime. CP25/40 covers the regulation of cryptoasset activities. CP25/41 covers admissions, disclosures, and a market abuse regime.
CP25/41 sets a consultation close date of February 12, 2026. Meanwhile, the UK Treasury has said cryptoasset regulation will commence in October 2027. Regulators aim to finalize supporting rules by the end of 2026.
Against that backdrop, Ripple’s UK approvals provide a compliant operating base today. At the same time, the 2026 gateway and 2027 commencement date define the next authorization steps for crypto firms seeking long-term access in the UK.
