Here's a breakdown of how many people in the UK own crypto, and the key regulatory update from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) you should know.

📊 Crypto Ownership in the UK

According to the FCA's research, 12% of UK adults now own crypto-assets (as of August 2024).
FCA
+2
FCA
+2

That figure corresponds to around 7 million UK adults.
The Standard
+2
Skadden
+2

The average value of holdings has increased to about £1,842.
CoinCodeCap
+2
FCA
+2

Public awareness of crypto is high: 93% of UK adults have heard of crypto-assets.
FCA
+1

🧭 Major FCA Crypto News / Regulatory Update

The FCA emphasises that crypto remains largely unregulated in the UK, meaning consumer protections are limited.
Blue Tech Wave Media
+2
FCA
+2

In a consultation paper, the FCA states an estimated 7 million UK adults hold cryptoassets, and it uses that growth to push for a regulatory framework.
FCA

The government has moved to bring crypto exchanges, dealers and agents within regulatory scope by end 2025.
Reuters
+1

Other UK crypto regulation news
Reuters
UK sets out new laws to regulate crypto exchanges and dealers
Apr 29, 2025
MoneyWeek
Crypto ETNs are approved for UK retail investors
Aug 5, 2025
MoneyWeek
Crypto assets of seven million UK investors at risk - how to keep yours safe
Aug 24, 2025
✅ What this means

Crypto ownership is no longer niche in the UK — a significant portion of adults are involved (12% or ~7 million).

With holdings averaging nearly £1,842, the investment size is meaningful for many.

Despite this, many owners may overestimate the protections they have: just because you hold crypto doesn't mean you have the same rights as with regulated financial products.

The regulatory environment is tightening: if you hold or trade crypto in the UK, it's wise to stay informed about rules, disclosures, and risk.

⚠️ What to watch / be cautious about

If you're investing in crypto in the UK (or advising others), remember the risk: the value could go to zero, your provider might fail, and recourse could be limited.

Make sure you understand the provider's status: is the exchange or platform authorised/registered with the FCA? Are you using a well-regulated entity?

With regulation in flux, changes in rules (tax, disclosures, product offerings) may happen in short order — stay updated.

Just because many people own crypto doesn't mean everyone is fully aware: the FCA found that awareness is high, but actual understanding can lag.
FCA
+1