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UK & Crypto

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Luis Clark
Luis Clark
Luis is a personal finance expert who has been passionate and writing about crypto for more than five years.
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      How Uk and Crypto Coexist

      The United Kingdom has a positive attitude toward cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. The government has established a task force to study the potential benefits and risks of digital currencies and is actively working to create a regulatory framework for the industry.

      The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is responsible for regulating crypto assets in the UK and has issued guidance on the regulations surrounding crypto assets and initial coin offerings (ICOs). Additionally, the Bank of England has also expressed interest in the potential use of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Overall, the UK is considered to be one of the more crypto-friendly countries in the world.

      Let’s take a closer look at some recent developments in the world of crypto in the UK.

      The UK’s Plan to Become a Global Crypto Hub

      UK to become a global hub for crypto

      In April 2022, the UK government announced plans to become a “global hub” for the crypto asset industry with proposals for the regulation of stablecoins and the development of an NFT issued by the Royal Mint. The government also plans to introduce a “financial market infrastructure sandbox” to help firms experiment and innovate. The proposals were announced by the Economic Secretary to the Treasury at the Innovate Finance Global Summit.

      The UK government also announced its intention to review taxation rules for crypto assets, including a review of DeFi loans. However, some policymakers, including the Governor of the Bank of England, remain skeptical of the technology and its potential for criminal activity. The UK government’s proposals are still largely in the conceptual stage and lack specific details.

      This move mode in April 2022 isn’t the first time the UK government has tried to become more closely involved in the future of crypto assets in the country.

      The financial services sector has strong roots in the country, and is a source of the its long-standing financial stability. The government intends to continue expanding the crypto sector by refining the regulatory perimeter around it and potentially bring stablecoins to life.

      As we explain later, this new clause and new forms are not the first time the country has tried to bring crypto into the fold of its financial services sector. The UK has a long-standing relationship with crypto regulation and the promotion of crypto assets.

      However, as we will see later in the article, even while the nation has made quite some progress, more work needs to be done, and the way forward currently doesn’t seem clear because the government is struggling to maintain control over the rapidly-evolving crypto sector.

      Institutional Acceptance

      Institutional acceptance of cryptocurrency in the United Kingdom is growing, with more major financial institutions showing interest in the technology with each passing day. Some of the establishments that support crypto in the UK include:

      1. Banks: Many of the major banks in the UK, such as Barclays and HSBC, have begun to explore the use of blockchain technology, thus, investing actively in crypto-related startups.

      2. Central Bank: Even the Central Bank of England is actively exploring opportunities for launching a CBDC, a central bank digital currency.

      3. Investment Firms: Several major investment firms in the UK, such as Schroders and Ruffer Investment Company, have begun to invest in cryptocurrencies, with some even offering crypto investment products to their clients.

      4. Stock Exchanges: The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has partnered with IBM to develop a blockchain platform for trading private company shares, and the Gibraltar Stock Exchange has begun listing blockchain-based companies.

      5. Regulators: The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been actively working to create a regulatory framework for the crypto industry in the UK, and the Bank of England has expressed interest in the potential use of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

      However, there are also certain challenges in terms of institutional acceptance of crypto in the UK. Let’s take a detailed look at them next.

      UK house of parliament

      Drawbacks of Institutional Acceptance

      There is often a difference between what governments and central banks are willing to risk, and what mainstream institutions are willing to risk. Governments and central banks may have a more cautious approach, as they are responsible for the stability of the entire financial system of the country and protecting citizens from fraud and financial crime.

      Mainstream institutions, on the other hand, may be more willing to take risks, as they see the potential for profit in the crypto industry. This can lead to a mismatch in regulations and policies between the government and institutions, making it difficult for the crypto industry to grow and develop in a stable and secure way.

      Additionally, while major institutions such as banks and investment firms are starting to invest in crypto, it’s still a relatively new and emerging technology, and therefore, many institutions are still cautious and may not fully understand how to navigate the crypto market.

      This lack of understanding and knowledge can lead to an absence of trust in the crypto industry and hinder its growth.

      Furthermore, many mainstream institutions are still not able to participate in the crypto market due to the lack of proper custody solutions and regulatory clarity, which makes it difficult for them to hold, trade, and provide services involving crypto assets.

      Crypto Exchanges and Wallet Availability in the UK

      There are several cryptocurrency exchanges based in the United Kingdom that are operating legally and in compliance with the regulatory perimeter set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Some of the more popular exchanges include Binance, Coinfloor, and eToro. These exchanges allow users to buy, sell, and trade a wide variety of cryptocurrencies. Some even offer additional crypto services, such as staking, NFT marketplaces, crypto cards, etc.

      The United Kingdom has a relatively favorable regulatory environment for cryptocurrency exchanges, which has led to the establishment of several exchanges in the country. The FCA has issued guidance on the regulations surrounding crypto assets and initial coin offerings (ICOs), and has established a regulatory framework for the crypto industry. This has helped to create a level of certainty and stability for exchanges operating in the UK, making it an attractive place for them to set up shop.

      However, some economic and policy reasons prevent some exchanges from operating in the UK. One of the main reasons is the lack of proper infrastructure and regulatory clarity that makes it difficult for exchanges to provide their services. Additionally, the high costs of compliance and regulations make it difficult for small and new exchanges to operate in the UK.

      In terms of wallets, several reputable and secure crypto wallets are available in the UK such as Ledger, Trezor, and Exodus. These wallets provide a safe and secure way for users to store their cryptocurrencies. The FCA also has regulations in place to protect users and prevent fraud in the crypto wallet space.

      Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK

      best crypto exchange uk featured

      There are several reputable crypto exchanges operating in the UK, including:

      1. Binance: A global exchange with a strong presence in the UK, offering a wide variety of trading pairs and low fees.

      2. Coinbase: A well-established exchange that is easy to use, has high liquidity and is compliant with the UK regulations.

      3. eToro: An exchange that offers a social trading platform, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of top traders.

      4. Kraken: A long-standing exchange that is known for its security and compliance UK regulations.

      5. Bitstamp: One of the oldest crypto exchanges in the market with a good reputation and a great security record.

      It’s important to note here that when looking for the best crypto exchange options, you should consider factors such as security, fees, supported cryptocurrencies, and user-friendly interface before making a decision.

      Before making any investments, it’s also recommended to conduct your own research and consult with a financial counselor.

      Government Regulations

      Cryptocurrency is legal in the United Kingdom and can be accessed by anyone. The government has taken a relatively hands-off approach to regulation, allowing the crypto industry to develop and grow in the country. 

      The FCA has established a regulatory framework for the crypto industry to protect consumers from fraud and financial crime, and to ensure that the crypto industry operates in a stable and secure manner. The FCA also requires crypto exchanges to register with them and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations.

      The government has also implemented the 5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive (5AMLD) which brings cryptocurrency exchanges and custodian wallet providers under the regulatory oversight of the FCA. The 5AMLD also obligates these firms to carry out customer due diligence and to report suspicious transactions.

      In terms of taxation, the UK government has classified cryptocurrency as a taxable asset, and individuals and businesses are required to pay taxes on any gains made from trading or using crypto. However, despite the regulation, it can be difficult to predict how these policies will play out in the future, as the crypto industry is still relatively new and constantly evolving.

      Decentralized Finance in the UK

      In the UK, decentralized finance (DeFi) is still a relatively new and developing idea, and it is not as widely accepted or adopted as it is in other countries. However, the UK government has shown a willingness to explore and consider new financial concepts such as DeFi.

      The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is responsible for regulating the crypto industry in the UK, has issued guidance on the regulations surrounding DeFi, establishing a regulatory framework for the DeFi industry. The FCA has also introduced a Sandbox which allows firms to test their products and services in a live environment with the goal of encouraging innovation and experimentation in the DeFi space.

      Despite all these efforts, DeFi is still seen as a peripheral technology in the UK, and its adoption is relatively low compared to it in other countries. However, the DeFi market is rapidly evolving and growing, and it is likely that it will continue to gain traction in the UK in the future.

      Financial conduct authority

      Financial Services

      Exchanges operating in the UK are allowed to offer a variety of financial services to their customers, including buying and selling of crypto, storage and custody of crypto assets, and other related services. Some exchanges also offer margin trading, derivatives, and futures trading for crypto assets.

      Crypto assets are not yet traded on mainstream financial markets in the UK, but there are some crypto-related financial products available. For example, the London Stock Exchange (LSE) has listed a number of companies that have exposure to crypto assets or the crypto industry. Additionally, there are investment funds and exchange-traded notes (ETNs) that provide exposure to crypto assets.

      In terms of financial services related to crypto, there are wealth management firms and financial advisors who offer advice and planning services for individuals and institutions looking to invest in crypto assets. These services include tax planning, portfolio management, and retirement planning.

      Financial services related to crypto in the United Kingdom are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and include buying and selling of crypto, storage and custody, margin trading, derivatives, and futures trading.

      Crypto assets are not yet traded on mainstream financial markets in the UK, but some crypto-related financial products are available, such as investment funds, exchange-traded notes (ETNs), and investment advice from wealth management firms and financial advisors.

      Some Notable Blockchain Startups in the UK

      1. ChainGuardian: A blockchain-based platform that allows users to store and manage their digital assets in a secure and transparent way. It offers a range of features, including multi-sig wallets, cold storage, and smart contract-based escrow.
      2. BABB: A decentralized banking platform that aims to make banking accessible to everyone, regardless of location or financial status. The platform uses blockchain technology to allow users to create their own bank accounts and conduct transactions without the need for intermediaries.
      3. Provenance: A supply chain management platform that uses blockchain technology to increase transparency and traceability in the supply chain. The platform allows businesses to track the origin and movement of goods, and provides consumers with detailed information about the products they buy.
      4. Everledger: A blockchain-based platform that provides a digital record of ownership for high-value assets, such as diamonds and fine art. The platform uses blockchain technology to create a tamper-proof record of ownership, allowing users to verify the authenticity of their assets.
      5. Block Verify: A blockchain-based platform that uses blockchain technology to combat counterfeit goods and fraudulent activities. The platform allows businesses to verify the authenticity of their products, and provides consumers with a way to check the authenticity of goods they purchase.

      Transparency in the UK

      Transparency in the crypto industry in the United Kingdom is largely determined by the regulatory compliance and licensing requirements set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

      To operate in the UK, crypto exchanges and other financial service providers must comply with these regulations and obtain a license from the FCA. This includes implementing policies, procedures, and controls, as well as conducting customer due diligence (CDD) and ongoing monitoring of transactions.

      Nearly all major crypto exchanges operating in the UK require some form of identification from customers to comply with AML and KYC regulations. This typically includes providing personal information such as name, address, and government-issued ID, as well as proof of residence. This helps the exchange to verify the identity of customers, detect and prevent money laundering, and other illicit activities.

      Spending Crypto in the UK

      spending crypto in the UK

      Spending crypto in the United Kingdom is becoming increasingly easy as more retailers and businesses have started accepting cryptocurrency as a form of payment. However, the level of acceptance varies depending on the location and type of business.

      Currently, some retailers sell gift cards and vouchers that can be purchased with crypto, including popular brands such as Amazon, iTunes, and Google Play. Additionally, there are a growing number of Bitcoin ATMs operating in the UK, which allows customers to buy and sell crypto in cash.

      There are also a number of outlets where customers can buy goods and services directly with crypto. For example, some online marketplaces, such as eGifter and Bitrefill, allow customers to purchase goods and services from a variety of retailers using crypto. In addition, some brick-and-mortar businesses, such as cafes, bars, and restaurants accept crypto as a form of payment.

      The UK also has a growing crypto scene, with so many meetups, conferences, and events taking place across the country. These events provide opportunities for people to learn more about crypto, network with other industry professionals, and engage with the community.

      Finally, there are some crypto hubs in the UK, such as London, which are home to a number of crypto start-ups and blockchain-related businesses. These hubs provide a conducive ecosystem for companies to innovate and collaborate with other companies and the government.

      It’s worth noting here that not all businesses that accept crypto are easily found online, so the actual number of businesses accepting crypto may be higher than reported. It is also important to mention here that the rate of adoption of crypto as a form of payment varies widely by region and type of business, and some regions may have higher crypto adoption than others.

      Bank’s Activity in Crypto

      In the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been taking a proactive approach to the regulation of the crypto industry. The FCA has issued guidance to consumers on the risks associated with crypto assets and also established a regulatory framework for crypto assets. This framework includes registration and supervision of crypto asset businesses, as well as rules for firms dealing or advising on crypto assets.

      In terms of banks and other financial institutions in the UK, some have begun to invest in and offer services related to cryptocurrency. For example, a few banks have started to offer custodial services for crypto assets, which is seen as a positive development for potential investors as it provides added security and ease of access to these assets. Additionally, some banks have also begun to offer trading and investment products related to crypto assets.

      However, not all banks in the UK have fully embraced cryptocurrency and some still view it as a high-risk category of assets and may advise their customers accordingly. The level of service and support offered by banks for crypto varies, and it is important for individuals to research and understand the stance of their banks on this issue.

      Overall, the UK’s banking sector is considered to be relatively open to cryptocurrency, with some banks actively investing and providing services in this area, but it is still not fully embraced by all institutions. The regulatory environment in the UK for crypto is supportive and allows for innovation and growth, but it also ensures that policies for consumer protection are in place.

      Final thoughts

      The United Kingdom has a relatively positive stance towards cryptocurrency and has taken steps to embrace the technology. Compared to other countries, the UK is generally considered to be more crypto-friendly. For example, countries like China and Russia have taken a more restrictive approach towards cryptocurrency, with outright bans or heavy regulations in place. On the other hand, countries like Switzerland and Malta have established themselves as crypto-friendly jurisdictions, with supportive regulations and a growing number of blockchain and crypto-related businesses.

      Overall, the UK stands in a relatively good position compared to other countries in terms of crypto acceptance, with a growing number of exchanges, wallets, and other crypto-related services available and a government that is actively seeking ways to foster innovation in the space.

      The future of crypto is uncertain, however, as governments, financial institutions, and other organizations continue to debate its legitimacy and potential uses. Some see crypto as a revolutionary technology that could disrupt the traditional financial system and enable greater financial freedom, while others view it as a speculative asset with little practical value and a high risk of fraud and illegal activity.

      As more and more companies, institutions, and individuals continue to explore the use of crypto and blockchain, we will likely see more innovations and use cases for this technology. What do you think we will see in the future?

      FAQ

      Most frequent questions and answers

      Using cryptocurrency for payments can have both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, cryptocurrency transactions can be secure and fast, with low transaction fees. They can also provide a high level of anonymity and protect the user’s financial information. On the other hand, cryptocurrency is still a relatively new and rapidly evolving technology, and its security and stability can be uncertain.

      Additionally, if a user loses access to their private keys, they can permanently lose access to their funds. Furthermore, the value of cryptocurrencies can be highly volatile, which can pose a risk for merchants accepting payments in cryptocurrencies.

      Yes, in the UK, you may have to pay taxes on your cryptocurrency transactions. The exact tax treatment of cryptocurrency depends on the individual circumstances, but generally speaking, cryptocurrency is considered a taxable asset for Capital Gains Tax purposes.

      If you make a profit from selling or disposing of cryptocurrency, you may have to pay Capital Gains Tax on the amount. Additionally, if you receive cryptocurrency as income, you may have to pay Income Tax and National Insurance contributions on it. It’s important to keep accurate records of all cryptocurrency transactions, as the UK tax authorities can request this information.

      The choice of cryptocurrency to use for payments in the UK ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. Some popular cryptocurrencies used for payments include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). These cryptocurrencies have established networks and are widely accepted by merchants, making them easy to use for payments.

      However, fees associated with the above mentioned networks may be high at times. It is important to keep these fees in check and potentially opt for faster and cheaper options such as the XRP Ledger (XRPL), Stellar (XLM), or others.

      Additionally, they are secure and have low transaction fees compared to traditional payment methods. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the value of cryptocurrencies can be highly volatile, and their use for payments is still limited.

      Skrumble.com provides all its content for informational purposes only, and this should not be taken as financial advice to buy, trade, or sell any investment instruments or products, including but not limited to cryptocurrencies, or use any specific exchange. Please do not use this website as investment advice, financial advice, or legal advice, and each individual’s needs may vary from that of the author. Investing in financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies, carries a high risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose the entire initial investment, so do not invest what you cannot afford to lose. We strongly advise conducting your own research before making any investment decisions. This post includes affiliate links with our partners who may compensate us.

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