GSR Markets UK, a subsidiary of the global cryptocurrency trading firm GSR, has received regulatory approval from the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), allowing the company to operate as a licensed crypto asset business.
According to a news release, the approval makes GSR the first crypto liquidity provider to achieve dual regulatory authorization from both the FCA and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This significant milestone is expected to facilitate the expansion of GSR’s services in the UK market.
What Does this Approval Mean for GSR Markets UK?
The FCA’s green light allows GSR to operate as a licensed crypto asset business, providing it with the necessary regulatory framework to offer its services to UK clients. This includes facilitating over-the-counter (OTC) and programmatic execution trading, catering to the growing demand for regulated and reliable crypto trading solutions.
Growing Demand for Regulated Crypto Trading Solutions
The approval arrives as the demand for regulated crypto trading solutions has grown significantly since Bitcoin (BTC) broke the $100,000 milestone in December 2024. Institutional investment entered the market throughout the year, with industry stakeholders increasingly seeking compliant trading platforms in crypto markets.
Related Developments in the Crypto Regulation Space
- Illegal Crypto Ads Persist in UK Despite FCA Warning: Despite recent crackdowns on unregulated activities, including banning Pump.fun in the UK, the FCA continues to push for progressive regulation of crypto to improve market safety and transparency for consumers.
- Google Requires FCA Registration for Crypto Ads Targeting the UK: As part of its efforts to regulate the crypto industry, Google has announced that it will require FCA registration for crypto ads targeting the UK.
Dual Regulatory Compliance: A Key Factor in GSR’s Approval
GSR’s dual approval from both the FCA and MAS demonstrates the company’s commitment to adhering to the regulatory standards of major global markets. This level of compliance is a key factor in its ability to operate as a licensed crypto asset business.
Quotes from Industry Executives
- "We are thrilled to have received dual regulatory authorization from both the FCA and MAS," said Xin Song, Group CEO of GSR. "This approval will allow us to confidently expand our services to institutional and professional clients globally."
- Jakob Palmstierna, CEO of GSR Markets UK, noted that the development will enable the company to better support its clients as they navigate the dynamic, rapidly growing market.
Service Expansion: Catering to Growing Demand for Regulated Crypto Trading
With the FCA’s approval, GSR can now cater to a growing demand for regulated and reliable crypto trading services. The company’s global presence numbers over 120 employees in the UK, positioning it as one of the largest crypto-native employers in the region.
Related Developments: Expansion into Singapore
- GSR Markets Receives MPI License in Singapore: GSR received its full major payment institution (MPI) license from the MAS on April 4, 2024. The MPI license allows the firm to conduct multiple payment services and exceed volume limitations for payment firms.
- Singapore: A Hub for Crypto Regulation: The MAS has been actively promoting the development of a robust regulatory framework for crypto in Singapore, with GSR’s MPI license being a significant milestone in this effort.
Magazine: How Crypto Laws Are Changing Across the World in 2025
The regulatory landscape for crypto is constantly evolving. As the industry continues to grow and mature, we can expect to see more developments in the areas of regulation and compliance. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and insights on crypto regulation by following our magazine.
