Google's January 2025 policy update: Providing Cryptocurrencyexchange advertisements to UK audiences must be registered with the FCA

Google will require advertisers promoting cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets in the UK to be registered with and certified by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. Advertisements for hardware wallets will also be allowed under specific conditions, with a focus on compliance with local legal requirements and industry standards. Google's policy update emphasizes the importance of user protection and wise decision-making.

Google plans to revise its financial product and service advertising policy, allowing cryptocurrency exchange and wallet advertisements targeting UK audiences from January 15, 2025. However, advertisers need to be registered with the FCA and certified by Google to promote their services.

According to the updated regulations, advertisers must comply with different standards for software and hardware Wallet advertisements. For Cryptocurrency exchange and software Wallet, advertisers must have FCA registration and authorization, as well as Google certification, to launch advertising campaigns. This regulation is tailor-made for the UK market to ensure compliance with local laws and industry standards.

As for hardware Wallet, Google will allow advertisements for devices designed to secure private keys of Cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFT), or other encryption assets, provided that these devices do not provide additional services such as purchasing, selling, exchanging, or trading assets. Advertisers must also comply with local legal obligations and obtain Google's certification.

With the release of a new update, the UK regulatory authority is actively cracking down on cryptocurrency-related advertising within its jurisdiction. On December 16th, the FCA issued a warning regarding the Solana-based memecoin and NFT project 'Retardio.' The regulatory body expressed concerns about unauthorized promotional activities targeting UK customers. The regulator stated that due to the company's lack of registration, consumers participating in the project may not be able to recover their funds if the company closes down. Please provide text to be translated. At the same time, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Nigeria has tightened its regulation on the marketing and promotion of encryption products. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission also stated that virtual asset service providers and KOLs must obtain permission from the agency before publishing any cryptocurrency advertisements.

Google 2025 January Policy Update: Providing Cryptocurrency exchange ads to the UK audience must be registered with the FCA. This article was first published in Blocktempo.