Finding a suitable cryptocurrency exchange in the UK might be more limited than in other regions. Many platforms choose to operate outside the UK’s stricter regulatory environment.

While many crypto exchanges operate globally, only a handful are authorised to operate in the UK. These authorised firms function under the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) temporary registration regime^ for cryptoassets. This signifies they undergo Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks, but not full FCA regulations.

Cryptocurrencies lack the safety net of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This means you wouldn’t be compensated if the platform holding your crypto goes bust. Additionally, the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) might not be able to help with disputes.

UK banks have been taking a cautious approach to crypto due to potential risks and the lack of consumer protections. This can make it a frustrating experience for crypto investors seeking traditional banking services. As a result, sticking with FCA-regulated firms for your crypto activities is currently the recommended course of action.

Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges In The UK

Of the numerous exchanges operating, only a limited number have established their operations within the UK and received approval from the FCA, here is the list:

eToro

Social investing platform eToro^ introduced cryptocurrencies in 2017 and currently offers over 80+ cryptocurrencies. Not only is eToro considered safe, but it is also a well-known and established fintech company.

Disclaimer: Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment, and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 minutes to learn more^.

Kraken

Kraken^ is a leading cryptocurrency exchange that offers a platform for buying, selling, and trading various digital assets. Founded in 2011, Kraken has grown to become one of the largest and most trusted exchanges in the industry. In the United Kingdom, Kraken operates locally as a FCA Registered Cryptoasset Firm under Money Laundering Regulations.

Coinjar

CoinJar^ has been in existence since 2013 and operates under the FCA’s temporary registration regime for cryptoassets. The exchange offers Bitcoin, Ethereum and more than 50 other cryptocurrencies.

Uphold

Uphold^ is an American cryptocurrency exchange that operates in the UK under the FCA’s temporary registration regime. The exchange currently offers 36+ cryptocurrencies in the UK and you can fund your account in GBP.

Coinpass

Coinpass^ is a relatively new player. It’s a UK-established crypto exchange that was founded in 2018 and was recently approved by the FCA.

Ziglu

Launched in 2018 Ziglu^ is a crypto platform that offers ways to earn interest from your Bitcoin and stablecoins investment. Ziglu is registered with the UK financial watchdog and offers Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Tezos, Cardano, Chainlink and more.

Bitstamp

Bitstamp^ is a cryptocurrency exchange based in Luxembourg that also operates from the UK. Bitstamp is one of the largest crypto exchanges in the world that is on the FCA register.

Bitstamp offers over 30 tradable cryptoassets.

Other companies involved with cryptocurrencies

Although the following companies offer cryptocurrency products they are not classed as exchanges but they are FCA regulated and you can buy cryptoassets from them.

Paypal

Paypal^, one of the world’s largest online payment providers, expanded into cryptocurrencies by allowing its customers to use the platform to buy, hold and sell crypto-assets, with investments starting at as little as £1.

PayPal currently only offers Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash.

Skrill

Another well-known and established payment provider has wandered into the world of cryptocurrencies. If you are a Skrill^ customer you can buy, sell and hold cryptocurrency for as little as £10.

Skrill is currently working with over 30 cryptocurrencies that include Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Cardano, Chainlink, Compound, Ethereum and Dogecoin.

Revolut

Revolut^ has become one of the UK’s most valuable fintech startups that has lodged an application to become a fully-fledged bank in the UK.

With Revolut you get access to 50+ cryptocurrencies and you can invest from as little as £1.

If you have a high-risk tolerance and want to use exchanges that operate outside of the UK, check out the global currency exchange list.