BlackRock, Inc., the American multinational investment company, is in the spotlight. Reports indicate that the firm with $12 trillion in assets under management is now a registered crypto asset firm with the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Notably, this recent development has spurred conversation on what it means for the future of the company and the digital asset market.
BlackRock and the New UK FCA Status
According to the FCA website, BlackRock is now the 51st firm approved to handle crypto-related assets in the UK. This registration, confirmed on April 1, 2025, has paved the way for BlackRock to enter a growing market.
According to the update, BlackRock had to follow strict rules set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which monitors financial businesses to ensure they operate safely and fairly.
Furthermore, with this approval, BlackRock can now offer crypto products and help clients trade digital currencies legally and safely in the United Kingdom.
Following this move, market experts believe that major companies like BlackRock view cryptocurrency as a valuable asset worth investing in. Given the firm’s massive size—managing more assets than most countries—this move sends a strong signal to other banks and investment funds.
It could encourage the UK to become a leading hub for cryptocurrency, especially with Europe closely observing the developments.
The BlackRock ETF Milestone
It is important to state that BlackRock is no stranger to the digital asset market. In January 2024, it launched an exchange-traded fund (ETF) called iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) in the US.
Interestingly, the investment fund quickly grew, pulling in billions from investors who wanted to acquire Bitcoin through the firm. While the BlackRock Bitcoin ETF has recorded distinct outflows, it is recognized as the most successful issuer in the market.
With its advancement in the UK and EU, BlackRock intends to bring a similar Bitcoin product to Europe. Experts are speculating that a European Bitcoin ETF could be the next step, following the success seen in the US.
This breakthrough is crucial because it connects cryptocurrency to mainstream investing, making it appear less risky to the general public. Analysts believe it could cause the Bitcoin price to rally as more investment capital enters the market.
Is BlackRock Planning an XRP ETF?
Presently, talks are swirling about whether BlackRock might surpass the Bitcoin spot ETF. Some experts are observing whether an XRP ETF tied to the Ripple coin is in the works.
CoinGape reported that in a recent interview, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse was asked about a potential collaboration with BlackRock to file for an XRP ETF in the US. While Garlinghouse did not confirm any partnership, his response suggested that such a move could make sense for the XRP community, fueling speculation.
XRP enthusiasts and community members hope that BlackRock’s crypto pivot in the UK will boost the crypto ETF scene even more.
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