UK Financial Regulator Lifts Ban on Crypto Exchange-Traded Notes for Retail Investors

According to Cointelegraph, the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has lifted its ban on crypto exchange-traded notes (cETNs) for retail investors, a decision that industry leaders view as a significant step toward aligning the UK with global crypto markets and enhancing its status as a digital asset hub. The regulatory change, effective from October 8, reverses a ban that was implemented in January 2021 due to concerns over extreme volatility and a perceived lack of legitimate investment need. The FCA's decision marks a shift in its approach to crypto assets, acknowledging the evolution of the market and the improved understanding of crypto-related products. Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the development. Ian Taylor, board adviser at CryptoUK and chief operating officer of HT Digital, expressed delight at the reversal, noting that the UK had been an outlier regarding ETNs. Taylor highlighted that CryptoUK has been advocating for broader access to regulated products like ETNs, which allow investors to track the performance of crypto assets without direct ownership. Riccardo Tordera, director of policy and government relations at The Payments Association, shared Taylor's optimism, emphasizing that the nature of crypto allows for global access. He argued that the FCA's previous ban on retail access to certain crypto products hindered the UK's potential to become a global crypto hub. Tordera welcomed the FCA's decision, stating that it empowers individuals to make their own investment choices while acknowledging the associated risks. He also noted that restricting access to cETNs had put the UK at a competitive disadvantage. Despite the positive reception from some quarters, skepticism remains. Jaime Rogozinski, founder of WallStreetBets, commented on the situation with sarcasm, suggesting that the UK embraces financial risk selectively. Meanwhile, the FCA clarified that while the ban on cETNs has been lifted, crypto derivatives remain prohibited for retail investors. The regulator reiterated that its ban on retail access to crypto asset derivatives, including futures, options, and perpetual contracts, will continue. The FCA stated that it will keep monitoring market developments and assess its approach to high-risk investments.