Wire · regulatory
UK FCA Issues First DeFi Guidance on AML and Smart Contract Compliance
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Fusion42 · 24 October 2026 · Fusion42 review
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has issued its first guidance clarifying how existing anti-money laundering rules and smart contract regulations apply to decentralized finance activities by regulated firms, without introducing new licensing obligations. The consultation on these rules closes November 18, with final guidance expected in early 2027.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Fintech, and 2 sources have reported it between 22 Oct 2026 and 23 Oct 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
You face clearer regulatory expectations for using DeFi and smart contracts under current AML laws, not new ones. This opens a door to serve UK clients using on-chain protocols while preparing for the final guidance early next year.
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2 sources · first reported 22 Oct 2026 · latest 23 Oct 2026
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