LONDON: Bitfinex, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, has announced major operational adjustments for its UK clients in line with the nation’s evolving financial regulations. From January 10, 2024, Bitfinex will apply measures that will greatly affect both individual and corporate clients, particularly existing individual customers and specific corporate clients who fail to comply with the exemption criteria defined by the UK’s Financial Promotions Order.
Regulatory Compliance and Customer Impact
These adjustments follow Bitfinex’s inclusion on the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) warning list in October, warning investors about unauthorised firms. In a noticeable policy shift, Bitfinex has declared that new UK clients who created accounts after November 1, 2023, will not be eligible for individual account verification. Existing customers will face constraints on financial activities such as new deposits, establishing new contracts, or boosting existing margin positions. However, these customers will still be able to manage, decrease, or close their current positions and withdraw funds.
The Corporate Clients’ Scenario
Corporate clients that fall into categories such as high-net-worth companies, unincorporated associations, or trusts and adhere to UK legal definitions, will be exempt from these limitations and will continue to enjoy regular services from Bitfinex. The exchange has reiterated its commitment to regulatory compliance and has warned of potential requests for extra information from corporate UK residents during the verification process to ensure they meet the eligibility conditions for exemptions.
Bitfinex’s Stance
Bitfinex’s decision to change its operational methods for UK users is motivated by its dedication to comply with financial regulations, including the withdrawal of product and service availability for certain UK customers. The exchange is working diligently to adapt to the UK’s regulatory requirements, and these changes will affect all existing individual and corporate customers who are UK residents and do not adhere to the Financial Promotions Order’s exemption clause.
