There is no immediate rule change by the UK Gambling Commission. However, senior Commission officials have indicated that the regulator is exploring how crypto transactions could be accommodated within the licensing framework as the FCA develops its cryptoasset regime.
The conversation has gained clarity after Parliament made the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Cryptoassets) Regulations 2026 in February. That will bring new cryptoasset activities within the FCA’s regulatory remit, with the new regime expected to come into force on October 25, 2027.
AML Controls Remain the Main Test
According to John Pierce, the Director of Enforcement of the Gambling Commission, the topic of crypto assets was discussed with the regulator’s Industry Forum during the Gambling Anti-Money Laundering Group event.
His remarks were cautious. The Gambling Commission is examining whether cryptoassets could be used as a consumer payment option in a way that meets licensing objectives and money laundering regulations.
The crucial aspect of crypto payments in the licensed market is the need to improve the sector’s ability to detect and prevent financial crime. Otherwise, such payment options will hardly be approved by the regulator.
FCA Regulation Changes the Background
The FCA’s new crypto regime provides a clearer framework for gambling authorities to operate within. When the regime comes into force, firms seeking to conduct cryptoasset regulated activities in the future will have to obtain authorization from the FCA.
Payments made using cryptocurrencies have frequently been associated with legal uncertainties, offshore services, and issues surrounding money laundering. Establishing a more explicit framework regarding financial regulation would help license holders determine which providers, wallets, and payment channels can meet compliance expectations.
Industry Forum Work Continues
The Commission’s Executive Director of Operations, Sue Young, also mentioned the issue at KPMG Gibraltar eSummit. According to her statement, the regulator is looking at how to keep pace with FCA progress and whether cryptoassets could be used more easily as a payment option in licensed gambling.
That suggests the Commission sees crypto as part of a wider innovation discussion, not only as a risk. The Commission has acknowledged growing consumer interest in crypto, especially among younger generations. However, regulators are still considering whether that demand can be met without strengthening illegal operators or weakening licensing and AML safeguards.
For now, the message looks cautious. Crypto payments remain possible in theory, but only if operators can show that they strengthen compliance rather than add new risks.
