Bybit Considering Halting Operations in the UK Due to Regulatory Changes
Bybit, a cryptocurrency exchange, is contemplating suspending its operations in the United Kingdom as a result of upcoming regulations from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) starting on October 8. CEO Ben Zhou expressed concerns about meeting the strict compliance requirements set by the FCA. The updated regulations by the FCA, which include cooling-off periods for new investors and stricter marketing rules, aim to improve transparency in cryptocurrency product advertising.
Impact on Exchanges and Industry
Zhou acknowledged that these changes would affect how exchanges like Bybit engage with consumers. Previously, some exchanges used “reverse solicitation” to bypass UK regulations, but the forthcoming FCA regulations explicitly address this practice, closing regulatory loopholes. Bybit is not the only exchange affected by these regulatory changes; other major players such as Binance and OKX have also been in discussions with the FCA. Luno has already implemented restrictions on certain services ahead of the October 8 deadline. Experts believe that these regulations could impact centralized platforms and potentially slow down crypto adoption.
Reviewing Plans Amid Uncertainty
As the deadline approaches, crypto firms, including Bybit, are reevaluating their strategies and plans. The industry is preparing for significant changes in the UK as these new laws aim to enhance investor safety and market transparency. However, the exact impact on the crypto sector remains uncertain.
Hot Take: Bybit Contemplates Ceasing UK Operations Due to Regulatory Changes
Bybit may halt its operations in the United Kingdom due to upcoming regulations imposed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA’s stricter compliance requirements, including cooling-off periods for new investors and more stringent marketing rules, have raised concerns for Bybit CEO Ben Zhou. These changes are aimed at improving transparency in the advertising of cryptocurrency products and will impact how exchanges engage with consumers. Bybit is not alone in facing the consequences of these regulatory changes, as other major players like Binance and OKX have also been in discussions with the FCA. While the industry braces for significant transformations, the exact implications on the crypto sector remain uncertain.