- UK explores crypto payments for licensed online casinos
- FCA framework sets October 2027 crypto compliance deadline
- Industry Forum tasked with mapping casino crypto integration
British gambling regulators are assessing whether cryptocurrency could soon be used as a payment option at licensed online casinos, as the country moves toward a formal crypto regulatory framework under the Financial Conduct Authority. The review connects gambling oversight with wider financial reforms scheduled over the next two years.
Regulators are examining how digital assets might operate within existing licensing structures. At the same time, officials stress that any potential integration would remain subject to established compliance standards.
Gambling Commission Outlines Crypto Payment Review
Tim Miller, executive director for research and policy at the UK Gambling Commission, said the regulator wants to examine the potential path forward for allowing cryptoassets to be used as a consumer payment option for licensed and regulated gambling operators. He delivered the remarks during the Betting and Gaming Council annual general meeting in London, as reflected in his published speech.
Miller explained that businesses carrying out regulated crypto activities will require authorization from the Financial Conduct Authority under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 once the new regime begins. Consequently, any gambling operator seeking to introduce crypto payments would need to comply with the forthcoming financial standards.
Miller confirmed that he has asked the Industry Forum, an advisory group representing gambling sector workers, to explore practical options for integrating cryptocurrency payments into licensed platforms. He did not set a deadline for the group’s findings.
The request signals the commission’s intention to review operational, compliance, and consumer protection considerations before making any formal decision. However, no final policy change has been announced.
FCA Framework Sets 2027 Compliance Timeline
Alongside the gambling review, the Financial Conduct Authority continues to advance its broader crypto regulatory framework. The regulator has released a final consultation outlining ten proposals covering crypto market activities and supervision standards. The FCA expects to conclude the consultation process in March, with full implementation targeted for October 2027. Earlier this year, the authority confirmed that firms must obtain full authorization before the regime goes live on Oct. 25, 2027. The application window is expected to open in September 2026.
Crypto asset service providers that fail to apply within that period will fall under transitional rules. Those rules will allow existing products to continue operating while restricting the launch of new offerings. Meanwhile, commission research indicates that cryptocurrency searches rank among the leading terms directing British gamblers to illegal websites. Regulators are reviewing whether permitting crypto payments within licensed platforms could address that trend while maintaining existing customer suitability requirements.
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