HTX settles FCA case as UK users lose access to deposits and new accounts
Court commitments will run until October 2031 following an agreement between the FCA and Huobi Global over HTX’s UK promotions.
HTX has settled a UK legal case over its crypto promotions, with court commitments running until October 2031. The Financial Conduct Authority announced the agreement on October 29, following proceedings against the exchange that was formerly known as Huobi.
The FCA says users can no longer deposit funds, new customers cannot register, and HTX has stopped actively seeking business in the country.
What changes for UK customers?
The FCA said HTX is no longer active in the UK and will stop targeting or soliciting UK consumers. It said existing customers with assets with the exchange should get in touch with the exchange’s support notice for withdrawal information.
But HTX said its UK exit arrangements and strengthened restrictions had started before the settlement that was announced.
Documents observed showed that the FCA started proceedings on October 21, 2025, and it was publicly announced in February 2026.
The regulator said HTX began to leave the UK market after proceedings started.
Court commitments extend to 2031
An October 27 High Court order records the settlement with Huobi Global S.A., the company named as the first defendant.
With the order, it can’t knowingly communicate or cause others to communicate, and there are no financial promotions that breach UK law through websites, apps, and social media.
What this means is that unlawful messages encouraging people to use crypto services or invest can’t be sent.
The settlement remains confidential, and there was no admission of liability or wrongdoing.
HTX gives its account of the agreement
In its October 29 response, HTX described the resolution as following constructive engagement. It said it had worked collaboratively to address the regulator’s concerns.
In its original court filing, the body gave an example of the access the exchange had that it didn’t want it to have. The filing showed that an FCA employee used a UK internet address and driving license to verify an account, purchase crypto, and trade futures.
Those allegations were part of the case that has now been settled.
Customers with balances have been directed to the exchange’s withdrawal guidance.
Final Summary
HTX settled the FCA’s crypto promotions case, with court commitments lasting until October 2031.
The FCA says UK deposits and new registrations are blocked. Users are encouraged to look at the withdrawal guidance.
