FCA: Fewer UK Consumers Hold Crypto, but Average Holdings Increase
The number of U.K. residents holding cryptocurrencies has declined this year, even as the average amount held per investor has grown, according to the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) Cryptoassets Consumer Research 2025 report.
Crypto ownership dropped from roughly 7 million in 2024 to about 4.5 million in 2025, while 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 coincides with the FCA’s launch of a consultation on new crypto regulations under an expanded oversight framework. Despite the decline, current ownership is still double the levels seen in 2021.
Investors who remain active are holding larger amounts. Around 21% reported holdings between £1,001–£5,000 ($1,345–$6,720), with the average holding rising to just under $2,500 from $2,300 last year. Total crypto held by U.K. residents reached $17.3 billion, according to an October Financial Times report.
Bitcoin (BTC$88,255.74) and ether (ETH$2,949.94) continue to dominate, held by roughly 70% and 35% of investors, respectively, keeping exposure concentrated in the two largest cryptocurrencies.
