Crypto ownership among UK adults is declining, but those who stay in the market are committing more capital, according to a new survey published by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and conducted by YouGov.
The poll, based on interviews with 2,353 UK adults between August 5 and September 2, shows that just 8% of adults owned cryptocurrency in 2025, down from 12% in 2024. Despite the drop, crypto ownership remains double the level seen in 2021, when only 4% of adults reported holding digital assets. This suggests that while casual participation is fading, crypto still holds a stronger foothold than it did a few years ago.
UK Crypto Ownership Declines but Market Matures
While fewer people now own crypto, the structure of holdings is shifting toward larger investments. Smaller-value accounts are becoming less common, while higher-value portfolios are on the rise. Among current crypto holders, 21% reported balances between $1,343 and $6,708, while 11% said they held between $6,709 and $13,416.
According to the FCA, this trend indicates that remaining participants are more serious investors. The regulator noted that individuals involved in crypto lending and borrowing are generally more knowledgeable, more comfortable with risk, and more aware of regulatory warnings compared with the average crypto user. This points to a market that is cooling at the retail level but becoming more concentrated and sophisticated.
Bitcoin and Ether continue to dominate UK crypto portfolios. The survey found that 57% of crypto owners hold Bitcoin, while 43% own Ether. Interest in other cryptocurrencies remains lower, although around 21% of holders reported owning Solana, making it one of the more popular alternatives after the two leading assets.
FCA Pushes Ahead With New Crypto Regulations
The survey was released on the same day the FCA launched three major consultations on future crypto rules, covering exchanges, staking services, and crypto lending and decentralized finance (DeFi). Industry participants and other stakeholders have been invited to submit feedback by February.
These consultations form part of the UK government’s broader effort to establish a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets. The FCA’s approach signals tighter oversight alongside an attempt to support responsible innovation in the sector.
Overall, the findings suggest that while broad retail enthusiasm for crypto in the UK may be cooling, the market itself is maturing. Larger average holdings, continued dominance of major cryptocurrencies, and increased regulatory clarity point to a more concentrated and professionalized crypto environment in the years ahead.
