Big news for UK crypto traders: IG just became the first publicly listed broker to snag an official crypto licence from the FCA. This isn’t just a regulatory box-tick—it’s a signal that crypto’s going mainstream in the UK, and IG’s betting big on it. With over 50 years in the trading game, they’re now levelling up their crypto offerings beyond what they launched back in June. Here’s what this means for you.
What This Licence Actually Does
IG Joins the FCA’s Crypto Register
The Financial Conduct Authority doesn’t hand out crypto licences lightly. Getting on their official register means IG’s met strict compliance standards—the same list that includes heavy hitters like Coinbase, Gemini, and Coinpass.
For IG customers, this unlocks some seriously useful features. You can now transfer crypto in and out of the platform (no more feeling trapped), access better pricing, and trade a wider range of digital assets. Before this, IG was piggybacking on a partnership with Uphold. Now? They’re flying solo.
Why This Matters for UK Investors
“This marks a significant step forward for IG as we continue to broaden our offering for UK investors,” said Michael Healy, IG’s UK managing director. Translation: they’re going all-in on crypto.
The licence gives IG customers more control and flexibility—two things crypto traders care about most. Plus, with the FCA’s stamp of approval, there’s an extra layer of trust that’s been missing from parts of the crypto market.
The FCA’s Push to Regulate Crypto
Building Trust in a Wild West Market
Let’s be clear—crypto’s had a reputation problem. Scams, crashes, and sketchy exchanges have spooked potential investors. The FCA’s been working overtime to change that by forcing companies to play by the rules.
IG’s licence is part of that broader effort. By ensuring only compliant firms operate in the UK, the regulator’s making crypto safer for everyday investors. And that’s good news if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for things to feel less… chaotic.
What It Means for Market Share
IG’s already a powerhouse in traditional trading. Now, with regulated crypto services, they’re positioned to grab serious market share from crypto-only platforms. Healy even thanked the FCA for their “efficient registration process”—a rare compliment in the world of financial regulation.
Expect IG to lean hard into this advantage as UK crypto adoption grows.
The Bottom Line
IG’s crypto licence isn’t just a win for them—it’s a win for UK investors who want regulated, reliable access to digital assets. With better pricing, more coins, and the ability to move crypto freely, IG’s setting a new standard for what a multi-asset platform should look like. If you’ve been curious about crypto but hesitant to dive in, IG’s FCA-backed offering might be the entry point you’ve been waiting for. Ready to explore? Check out IG’s expanded offerings and see how they stack up.
FAQ
Q1: What does IG’s FCA crypto licence allow them to do?
A: The licence lets IG offer a full suite of crypto services, including asset transfers in and out of the platform, expanded coin offerings, and more accurate pricing. It’s a major upgrade from their previous partnership model.
Q2: Is IG the only UK broker with a crypto licence?
A: IG is the first UK-listed broker to get FCA approval, but other firms like Coinbase, Gemini, and Coinpass are also on the register. The difference? IG’s a publicly traded company with decades of trading experience.
Q3: Why does FCA regulation matter for crypto investors?
A: FCA oversight means stricter compliance, better consumer protection, and less risk of scams or platform failures. It’s designed to make crypto investing safer and more trustworthy for UK residents.
Q4: Can I transfer my existing crypto to IG now?
A: Yes! One of the key benefits of the licence is that you can now move crypto assets in and out of IG’s platform, giving you more flexibility than before.
Q5: What crypto assets can I trade on IG?
A: IG hasn’t released the full list yet, but they’ve confirmed they’re expanding their range. Expect popular coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, plus additional altcoins as they build out their offerings.
DISCLAIMER
Effective Date: 15th July 2025
The information provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects the personal opinions of the author(s). It is not intended as financial, investment, tax, or legal advice.
We are not certified financial advisers. None of the content on this website constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any financial product, asset, or service. You should not rely on any information provided here to make financial decisions.
We strongly recommend that you:
- Conduct your own research and due diligence
- Consult with a qualified financial adviser or professional before making any investment or financial decisions
While we strive to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date, we make no guarantees about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of any content on this site.
By using this website, you acknowledge and agree that we are not responsible for any financial loss, damage, or decisions made based on the content presented.
