Starting 8 October 2023, users in the United Kingdom will experience meaningful changes to how cryptocurrency services are offered — all due to new financial promotion regulations introduced by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). These updated rules specifically impact retail investors and require platforms like OKX to adapt their communication, product offerings, and risk disclosures.
At OKX, we’ve proactively refined our platform experience to remain fully compliant while continuing to deliver secure, transparent, and innovative crypto services to UK users.
Understanding the FCA’s New Financial Promotions Regime
The FCA's revised financial promotions rules aim to protect retail investors by ensuring they receive clear, balanced, and risk-aware messaging when engaging with crypto products. As part of this regime:
- Marketing materials must include prominent risk warnings.
- Platforms must limit the number of crypto assets offered to retail customers.
- Incentives such as referral bonuses or trading rewards are restricted.
- All promotional content must avoid exaggeration or misleading claims.
These changes reflect a broader shift toward treating digital assets more like traditional financial instruments — with greater accountability and consumer safeguards.
👉 Discover how top platforms are adapting to global compliance standards.
Key Changes for UK Users on OKX
To align with these regulatory expectations, OKX has implemented several key updates effective from 8 October 2023:
Reduced Token Selection
We’ve streamlined our retail offering to over 40 carefully selected crypto assets, each evaluated for liquidity, transparency, and market stability. This ensures that UK users only access tokens that meet stringent compliance criteria.
Enhanced Risk Disclosures
You’ll now see clear, visible risk warnings across the platform — especially before trading or depositing funds. These messages emphasize that:
Cryptocurrency investments are unregulated in the UK, can fall as well as rise, and you may get back less than you invested.
This isn’t just a regulatory checkbox; it’s a core principle of responsible innovation.
Dedicated UK-Focused Communication
To better serve our UK audience, we’ve launched an official X (formerly Twitter) presence tailored specifically for local users: @okx_uk. Follow for timely updates on compliant products, educational content, and market insights relevant to UK traders.
Why Responsible Trading Matters
The FCA’s focus on responsible messaging resonates deeply with OKX’s long-standing values. We believe that empowering users with knowledge is just as important as providing access to cutting-edge trading tools.
As one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges by trading volume, we recognize our role in promoting safe and informed participation in digital asset markets.
Our commitment includes educating users on critical concepts such as:
- Doing Your Own Research (DYOR): Never invest based solely on hype. Always verify project fundamentals, team credibility, and use cases.
- Trading Plans: Define entry/exit points, position sizes, and goals before placing any trade.
- Counterparty Risk: Understand who holds your assets and how securely they’re managed.
- Risk Management: Use stop-losses, diversify holdings, and never risk more than you can afford to lose.
Many of our educational videos conclude with the phrase: Trade responsibly. But for us, it’s not just a slogan — it’s a mission-driven promise to support sustainable engagement in the crypto economy.
👉 Learn how to build a disciplined trading strategy today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted these changes for UK users?
The UK Financial Conduct Authority introduced updated financial promotion rules effective 8 October 2023. These aim to protect retail investors by requiring clearer risk disclosures, limiting asset offerings, and restricting certain types of marketing incentives.
Does this affect all OKX users?
No. These changes apply only to retail users based in the United Kingdom. Users outside the UK or those classified as professional/institutional clients may continue to access a broader range of services.
Why did OKX reduce its token list for UK users?
Under FCA guidelines, platforms must ensure crypto assets promoted to retail investors meet specific standards around transparency and market integrity. We’ve curated a compliant selection of over 40 high-quality assets to meet these requirements.
Are crypto investments regulated in the UK?
Currently, most cryptocurrency assets are not regulated by the FCA. However, firms offering crypto-related services must comply with anti-money laundering (AML) rules and financial promotion standards. The FCA warns that investors have limited protections if things go wrong.
Is OKX leaving the UK market?
Absolutely not. While some exchanges have exited due to compliance challenges, OKX remains fully committed to serving UK users. We’re investing in localized features, education, and compliance to ensure a seamless and trustworthy experience.
How can I stay updated on OKX news for UK users?
Follow our dedicated UK channel on X: @okx_uk. This account shares product updates, compliance information, and educational resources tailored for British customers.
Our Ongoing Commitment to the UK Market
Despite the evolving regulatory landscape, OKX’s dedication to the UK has never been stronger. While some industry players have chosen to withdraw, we view regulation as an opportunity — not a barrier.
By embracing responsible innovation, we aim to build deeper trust with users, regulators, and the wider financial ecosystem. Our goal is to provide UK customers with a platform that combines regulatory compliance, robust security, and advanced trading capabilities — all while prioritizing user education and protection.
We’re continuously improving our products to meet local needs, including enhancing customer support, refining user interfaces, and expanding educational resources in British English.
👉 See how OKX combines innovation with compliance for a safer trading environment.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of stricter financial promotion rules in the UK marks a pivotal moment in the maturation of the crypto industry. Rather than deterring progress, these regulations help establish a foundation for long-term sustainability and consumer confidence.
At OKX, we welcome this evolution. Our approach has always been rooted in transparency, education, and user empowerment — values that align closely with the FCA’s objectives.
As the landscape continues to evolve, we remain committed to offering UK users a secure, compliant, and feature-rich platform where innovation meets responsibility.
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