IA Urges Fund Managers to Plan for UK Crypto Assets Regime

The Investment Association urges UK fund managers to prepare for the upcoming Crypto Assets Regime, highlighting essential regulatory guidance in their latest report.

As the landscape of cryptocurrency evolves, awareness of regulatory frameworks is becoming a key focus for fund managers operating in the UK. The Investment Association (IA), which represents the UK investment management sector, has brought this to the forefront with its latest report designed to guide firms through the impending UK Crypto Assets Regime. What Is the UK Crypto Assets Regime? Launched on March 16, 2026, the IA’s report titled " UK Crypto Assets Regime: How the investment management industry can navigate new waters " is a pivotal resource for fund and investment managers involved in digital markets. Produced in collaboration with Travers Smith, this guidance aims to help firms understand the implications of new regulations set to commence on October 25, 2027. For the first time, a range of activities related to crypto assets will come under the full regulation of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This significant change requires investment firms handling digital assets to prepare for the new regulatory realities. Why Should Fund Managers Prepare Now? Given that the regulatory changes are on the horizon and expected to reshape how digital assets are managed, the IA emphasizes the need for fund managers to start evaluating how these regulations will influence their operations. The guidance highlights key areas that firms need to focus on immediately: Understanding how digital asset activities will be affected by the new regulatory framework. Planning for a variation of permission applications for current operations or obtaining FCA authorization if entering digital markets for the first time. Registering for compliance with the existing Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (MLRs) crypto asset regime if applicable. What Are the Key Recommendations from the IA's Report? The report outlines strategic pathways for investment managers as they navigate potential regulatory changes. Here are some of the key recommendations: Begin pre