Banks in the UK are increasing the blocking or restricting of customer transfers to crypto exchanges, including platforms registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). A survey by the UK Crypto Business Council shows that 80% of exchanges reported an increase in the number of customers blocked by banks in 2025, with about 40% of transactions being rejected or delayed.
Many major banks such as HSBC, Barclays, and NatWest have set limits on transfers to crypto exchanges, while some other banks like Chase UK, Metro Bank, TSB, and Starling are almost completely blocking these payments, citing concerns over fraud and consumer protection. This is happening even as the UK is gradually refining its legal framework for digital assets, and the FCA has licensed dozens of crypto companies that meet anti-money laundering standards. Industry businesses warn that the trend of “debanking” is becoming a significant barrier to the growth of the crypto sector in the UK.