UK Regulator Sues HTX Exchange Over Illegal Promotions

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has launched legal action against HTX Exchange for promoting cryptocurrency without authorization.
The case, filed on 21 October 2025, was brought in the Chancery Division of the High Court. The FCA claims that HTX and some other associated operators promoted their services on social media platforms despite repeated warnings.
The defendants named in the proceedings include HUOBI GLOBAL S.A., a company incorporated in Panama, and some other unidentified individuals described as the controlling or operating parts of the HTX Exchange platform.
The unidentified parties are alleged to have managed the company’s official website, mobile applications, and social media promotions across platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, TikTok, YouTube, Discord, Medium, and LinkedIn.

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On the 4th of February 2026, the High Court granted the FCA permission to serve the proceedings outside of the UK and through other alternative means. This order, issued by Deputy Master Dovar, allows the FCA to formally notify the defendants even if they are located abroad or cannot be identified by their actual names. Key documents related to the case have since been released in accordance with the court’s directions.

The FCA Allegations Against HTX Exchange

The FCA alleges that HTX and the other unidentified operators promoted cryptocurrencies without proper regulatory approval; this is a violation of UK financial law. The proceedings also extend to any future individuals who may want to gain control of HTX or any of its promotional accounts before 31 October 2028, ensuring that there is enough accountability regardless of who owns the exchange.
This action by the FCA shows its dedication to cracking down on unregulated crypto operations that target UK investors through online and social media channels. With this new case in the books, it could set a precedent for how UK authorities pursue overseas cryptocurrency platforms that market services to domestic investors without formal authorization.

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