Google’s New Crypto Ad Policies Set to Impact UK Market

In the UK, Google is strengthening its regulations on cryptocurrency advertisements, and the new guidelines will take effect on January 15, 2025. Many businesses in the cryptocurrency industry will need to immediately adjust to the new rules as a result of this move.

New Requirements for Crypto Advertisers

Under the new policy, businesses promoting digital asset exchanges and wallets must register with the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) before running ads on Google’s platform. This move comes as part of the UK’s broader push to increase regulatory oversight in the cryptocurrency industry. The goal is to ensure that crypto promotions comply with local laws and prevent unauthorized advertisements.

The updated guidelines will only allow ads for crypto exchanges and software wallets that are registered with the FCA. In addition, Google will permit advertisements for hardware wallets, but these can only focus on storage for private keys related to cryptocurrencies, NFTs, or other digital assets. These ads cannot offer services such as buying, selling, or trading crypto.

Google emphasized the importance of regional compliance. Advertisers are expected to meet the legal requirements in the areas they target, making this policy applicable not just in the UK, but globally. Companies promoting financial products are encouraged to fully understand the regulatory frameworks in the markets they serve.

Google’s action coincides with heightened global scrutiny of bitcoin advertising. Authorities recently alerted the public to the dangers of illegal marketing in the UK by warning against an unregistered Solana-based memecoin and NFT scheme.

On a global scale, other nations are also strengthening their regulations. For instance, before selling cryptocurrency items, influencers and virtual asset service providers must now get approval from Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission. Concern over the possible financial hazards associated with uncontrolled cryptocurrency advertising is growing, as evidenced by these actions.