FCA and HTX in settlement talks over crypto promotions

The FCA and HTX are in settlement talks over alleged unauthorized crypto promotions to UK consumers. The High Court has paused proceedings until late August for negotiations.

Britain's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and cryptocurrency exchange HTX, formerly known as Huobi, are in settlement talks over allegations that HTX illegally promoted crypto services to UK consumers without proper authorization. The FCA filed a lawsuit against HTX in October 2025, marking its first enforcement action against a crypto firm for marketing violations. Currently, the case is before London's High Court but has been paused until late August to allow both parties time to negotiate a settlement. The FCA's claim names Huobi Global, incorporated in Panama, and several 'persons unknown' who operate or control the exchange. The regulator has expressed concerns about global crypto platforms using complex corporate structures to target UK consumers online, despite regulatory restrictions. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how the UK enforces crypto promotion rules against offshore platforms and may shape future regulatory frameworks for the sector.