Fewer people hold crypto in the UK, though total holdings continue to rise

FCA: Fewer UK Consumers Hold Crypto, But Average Holdings Rise

The number of U.K. residents holding cryptocurrencies has dropped this year, even as the average amount per investor has increased, according to the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) Cryptoassets Consumer Research 2025 report.

Crypto ownership fell from roughly 7 million in 2024 to about 4.5 million in 2025, though awareness of digital assets remains high at 91%. “The percentage of U.K. adults currently holding cryptoassets has declined from 12% in 2024 to 8% in 2025,” the FCA noted.

The report comes as the FCA launched a consultation on proposed crypto regulations under a new framework, aimed at expanding oversight of the sector. Despite the decline, crypto ownership is still double the level reported in 2021.

Investors who remain in the market are holding larger amounts. About 21% reported holdings between £1,001–£5,000 ($1,345–$6,720), while the mean value per holder rose to just under $2,500, up from $2,300 last year. The total crypto held by U.K. residents reached $17.3 billion, according to a Financial Times report in October.

Bitcoin (BTC$88,255.74) and ether (ETH$2,949.94) remain the dominant assets, held by around 70% and 35% of investors, respectively, reflecting continued concentration in the two largest cryptocurrencies.