Google's 2025 crypto ad policy mandates FCA registration for UK ads, impacting crypto businesses with stringent compliance requirements.
Google's rolled out some new rules about crypto ads. Starting in 2025, they want companies that offer fiat to crypto payments in the UK to sign up for the FCA. Yeah, they’re tightening up the screws, folks.
Here's the deal. This isn't just a UK thing, though. They expect all crypto companies to play by the rules of the region they're targeting. So, if you’re trying to get started crypto in different parts of the world, you gotta be aware of what’s cooking there.
If you want to run crypto ads on Google, you need to be registered with the FCA. This applies to everyone, including those who just jumped into the crypto game. And you’ve got to show that you follow the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and Transfer of Funds Regulations.
You also have to stick to AML and CTF rules. Not following them can get you in hot water, including getting shut down in the UK. This means you better be transparent about what you're doing, especially with funds crypto.
Since October 2023, any firm wanting to market crypto to UK retail must be FCA-approved. You have to give clear risk warnings, a cooling-off period, and other assessments. This should make consumers more aware of what they’re getting into.
If you're a smaller business in crypto, you need to show you’ve got good governance and solid systems in place. This could mean spending a lot on compliance, which might be tough for smaller guys.
The FCA isn’t playing around with this. They’ve been quick to act on companies that are not following the rules. They’ve already shut down some firms for promoting crypto investments without the proper protocols.
For those of you running a business that accept crypto, this is a tough pill to swallow. You’ll need to have good compliance systems, and it’s going to cost you. Plus, if you don’t comply, your business could come to a halt.
So how do you stay compliant? Partner with licensed crypto payment gateways, invest in compliance infrastructure, and talk to legal or compliance experts. These are your best bets.
Even though these rules are global, the requirements differ. For example, in the U.S., you have to register with FinCEN or a bank regulator. In Europe, it’s the same thing, but they also have to comply with the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation.
This is a big one. You’ve got to know the local laws where you operate. Knowing these regulations helps you avoid legal headaches and allows you to keep advertising your products and services.
It looks like Google's crypto ad policies are changing the game. You’ll need to understand these new rules and make sure you comply if you want to keep advertising. The crypto landscape is shifting, and you better be ready to adapt.