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CEX.IO has resumed its operations in the United Kingdom after a voluntary suspension that lasted nearly 10 months. This strategic move comes after the platform adapted to new regulatory guidelines issued by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The exchange, which paused services in response to the U.K.’s Regime of Financial Promotions policy implemented in October 2023, is now back in action, marking a critical milestone for CEX.IO UK operation.
The relaunch, announced on September 12, signals CEX.IO’s commitment to regaining its foothold in one of its most significant markets. With over 69% of its European Economic Area (EEA) customer base hailing from the U.K. as of October 2023, the crypto exchange aims to capitalize on its updated compliance framework and reestablish its influence in the British cryptocurrency ecosystem.
CEX.IO voluntarily suspended its UK operation in 2023 following the introduction of the FCA’s Regime of Financial Promotions policy. This move, aimed at strengthening investor protection and enhancing the regulatory framework for financial services, required all crypto exchanges operating in the UK to comply with stringent promotion and communication standards.
According to CEX.IO UK operation team, the temporary suspension was necessary to ensure that its UK operation fully adhered to the FCA’s new regulations. The exchange has since overhauled its compliance policies, particularly in relation to financial promotions, and has now resumed its UK services for both existing and new customers as of August 2024.
“Our decision to pause operations in the UK last year was driven by our commitment to ensuring the highest level of compliance with evolving regulations,” said CEX.IO CEO Oleksandr Lutskevych. “We’ve used the past 10 months to revamp our platform and align with the FCA’s regulatory framework, and we’re excited to resume services for our UK customers.”
While CEX.IO has restarted its UK operation, the exchange is still in the process of securing full anti-money laundering (AML) registration with the FCA, a requirement for operating as a fully compliant crypto exchange in the U.K. However, the exchange has received approval from FCA-designated firm Gateway 21, which allows it to continue operating while it works toward obtaining full AML certification.
This partnership with Gateway 21 enables CEX.IO UK operation to manage its services from Lithuania while still adhering to U.K. regulatory requirements. By collaborating with Gateway 21, CEX.IO ensures that its UK operation can continue without interruption, even as it navigates the complex regulatory landscape.
“We recognize the importance of complying with all regulatory requirements to protect our customers and ensure long-term success in the UK market,” said Lutskevych. “Our collaboration with Gateway 21 ensures that we can meet those standards while continuing to provide secure and reliable services to our UK users.”
CEX.IO UK operation has long been a cornerstone of the exchange’s global strategy. In fact, before the suspension in October 2023, UK customers represented over two-thirds of CEX.IO’s total customer base across the European Economic Area. The U.K.’s importance to CEX.IO’s growth cannot be understated, and the exchange has made it clear that reestablishing itself in this market is a top priority.
To achieve this, CEX.IO has made significant upgrades to its platform, which now offers access to over 190 digital assets. The exchange has also enhanced its security measures and introduced new features that comply with the FCA’s regulations, further strengthening its position in the UK crypto space.
“Returning to the UK market is a pivotal moment for us,” noted Lutskevych. “The UK has always been one of our primary markets, and we are committed to providing a compliant, secure, and user-friendly platform for our customers.”
CEX.IO’s journey back into the UK crypto market underscores the growing importance of regulatory compliance in the digital asset space. As authorities around the world tighten their grip on the sector, exchanges like CEX.IO are faced with the challenge of navigating increasingly complex regulatory environments.
The U.K., in particular, has become a focal point for cryptocurrency regulation, with the FCA taking a more proactive role in overseeing the sector. The Regime of Financial Promotions policy is just one example of the measures being implemented to safeguard investors and ensure that crypto services meet strict transparency and accountability standards.
“CEX.IO’s proactive approach to compliance sets a positive example for other exchanges looking to operate in the UK market,” said Simon Taylor, a leading fintech analyst. “Their willingness to pause operations to ensure full compliance with the FCA’s regulations demonstrates a commitment to regulatory integrity, which is essential in today’s market.”
As CEX.IO UK operation regains momentum, the exchange is focused on scaling its services and attracting both retail and institutional investors. The company has expressed ambitions to expand its product offerings and increase its presence in the U.K. by adhering to the highest regulatory and security standards.
With its updated compliance framework, the exchange is well-positioned to meet the demands of U.K. customers while ensuring long-term sustainability in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment. The next steps for CEX.IO UK operation include securing full AML registration with the FCA and exploring additional partnerships to enhance its service offerings.
For now, the resumption of CEX.IO UK operation marks a significant milestone in the exchange’s global growth strategy. As the platform continues to adapt to regulatory changes, its commitment to transparency and compliance will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge in the UK market.
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