Application, scope & purpose
The FCA operates multiple sandbox programs including a Digital Sandbox (permanent since 2023) and a new "Supercharged Sandbox" launched in partnership with NVIDIA in 2025. While primarily for FinTech, these sandboxes accept applications involving AI, VR, and AR technologies for financial services innovation.
MV/VW environment
Financial services applications incorporating VR/AR for banking interfaces, AI-driven advisory services, and immersive financial data visualization.
Role of sandbox
Provides regulatory relief, synthetic data access, and controlled testing environment with over 1,000 APIs available. The sandbox allows temporary exemptions from full regulatory compliance while testing innovative products.
Results obtained
- Over 630 applications received since launch, with continuous expansion of capabilities
- 40% of participants in fraud detection testing either launched products, secured partnerships, or obtained funding
- The sandbox has processed applications from distributed ledger technology, AI, and crypto/DeFi companies