U.K. Regulator Names Sarah Pritchard as Deputy CEO to Oversee Crypto and Stablecoins

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has appointed Sarah Pritchard as its first-ever deputy chief executive, signaling a heightened focus on regulating the crypto and digital assets industry. The move comes as the FCA expands its remit to include stablecoins, crypto firms, and buy-now-pay-later activities.

While the U.K. lags behind the European Union''s Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) framework, the FCA is developing a more comprehensive regulatory regime. By 2026, the agency plans to authorize crypto firms using a approach similar to traditional finance companies.

Pritchard, previously an executive director at the FCA, will also handle international coordination. "The international environment is complex, our remit is growing, and expectations of us continue to evolve," said FCA Chair Ashley Alder.