Ripple Secures UK Regulatory Nod From FCA Amid Global Expansion ⋆ ZyCrypto

Ripple, a blockchain-payments firm behind the XRP cryptocurrency, is expanding its regulatory footprint after obtaining key approval in the United Kingdom.

The development is quite momentous for the company’s global expansion efforts, given that the UK is one of the world’s leading economies. 

Ripple Hits Major Regulatory Milestone In The UK

According to official records on Friday, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) granted Ripple’s UK subsidiary, Ripple Markets UK, an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) registration under the UK’s Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs).

The EMI license permits firms to offer compliant payment services and issue electronic money. This move could likely impact Ripple as it is the issuer of the U.S.-pegged stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD).

Successful registration means Ripple is listed on the FCA’s Cryptoasset Register, allowing it to operate legally in the UK while complying with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing rules.

“Extending Ripple’s licensing portfolio and payments solution is about more than just efficiency; it is about unlocking trillions in dormant capital and realizing a world where value moves instantaneously,” Ripple president Monica Long said in a statement. 

While Ripple has secured the EMI license, it remains subject to restrictions pending further approval from the FCA.

“Ripple Markets UK will not, without the prior written consent of the authority,” provide services involving crypto ATMs, “offer or commence any services to retail clients,” or appoint any agents or distributors, per the FCA records.

Ripple’s approval comes as the FCA says it will require MLR-registered companies to apply for full authorization under the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA) in September 2026, as the new crypto licensing regime is expected to commence in October 2027.

String Of Regulatory Wins

Ripple’s regulatory approval in the UK continues a trend of regulatory victories for the company, which saw its multi-year-long battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) come to an end in August 2025.

Last year, Ripple became one of the first blockchain payments providers licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to operate within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). 

In December, Ripple obtained approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to expand the scope of payment activities under its Major Payment Institution license.

The San Francisco-based payments firm Ripple now holds more than 50 money transmitter licenses across numerous U.S. states, including key approvals in Texas and New York.