The world of finance is evolving at lightning speed, and cryptocurrencies are no longer just a niche interest—they’re reshaping how we bank, invest, and transact. In the UK, where crypto adoption has been surging, with 3.7 million users and counting in recent years, finding a bank that embraces digital assets is crucial for seamless trading and investing. Whether you’re a seasoned crypto trader or just dipping your toes into Bitcoin, choosing a crypto-friendly bank can make all the difference.
These banks bridge the gap between traditional finance and the digital frontier, offering smooth transfers to exchanges, in-app trading, and innovative features like crypto wallets. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the top crypto-friendly banks in the UK for 2025, designed to keep your crypto journey secure, simple, and rewarding.
Glancing at the Best Crypto-Friendly Banks in the UK
Here’s a quick comparison of the top crypto-friendly banks in the UK for 2025, highlighting their key offerings, fees, and supported features to help you choose the right fit.
Bank/Platform | Supported Cryptocurrencies | Fees | Payment Methods | Crypto Features |
Revolut | 80+ | 0.99%-1.99% per year | Bank transfer, Debit/Credit Card | In-app trading, crypto wallets, staking |
Monzo | Via exchanges (e.g. Coinbase) | No direct crypto fees | Bank transfer, Debit card | Seamless exchange transfers |
Starling Bank | Via exchange (e.g. Kraken) | No direct crypto fees | Bank transfer, Debit card | Fast transfer to FCA-regulated exchanges |
Wirex | 59+ | 0%-2% per trade | Bank transfer, Debit/Credit Card | Crypto Card, staking, DeFi features |
Lloyds Banking Group | Via exchanges | No direct crypto fees | Bank transfer, Debit card | Faster payments for crypto exchanges |
Xace | Via exchanges | Varies by account | Bank transfer, Debit/Credit Card | Tailored crypto for businesses |
Natwest | Via exchanges | No direct crypto fees | Bank transfer, debit card | Low-rate exchange support, € 1000 daily cap |
Barclays | Via exchanges | No direct crypto fees | Bank transfer, debit card | Secure transfers to FCA-approved exchanges |
Understanding the Top Crypto-Friendly Banks in the UK
Now, let us understand these crypto-friendly banks in better detail.
1. Revolut
Revolut, a UK-based fintech giant with over 15 million global users, is a standout for crypto enthusiasts. Its app integrates traditional banking with crypto trading, allowing you to buy, sell, and hold over 80 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Revolut’s custodial wallet and staking options make it a one-stop shop for managing fiat and digital assets.
Key Features:
- In-App Trading: Buy and sell 80+ cryptocurrencies directly in the app
- Crypto Wallets: Store digital assets securely with custodial wallets
- Staking: Earn passive income on select cryptocurrencies
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive app with real-time price alerts
- Regulation: FCA-regulated for trust and compliance
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Seamless crypto and flat integration | Custodial wallet (no private key control) |
Wide range of cryptocurrencies | Trading fees of 0.99%-1.99% can be high |
Staking and savings vaults | Limited advanced trading tools |
Fast setup with minimal paperwork | Withdrawal limits for fraud prevention |
2. Monzo
Monzo, a leading UK digital bank, is known for its user-friendly app and crypto-friendly policies. While it doesn’t offer direct crypto trading, Monzo allows seamless transfers to FCA-regulated exchanges like Coinbase, making it a favourite for crypto traders.
Key Features:
- Exchange Integration: Supports transfers to exchanges like Coinbase
- Flexible Limits: High transaction limits for crypto deposits
- Mobile App: Real-time tracking and budgeting tools
- Regulation: FCA-regulated with FSCS protection
- Fast Transfers: Supports faster payments for quick deposits
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Easy transfers to major exchanges | No in-app crypto trading |
No direct crypto fees | Limited support for non-FCA exchanges (e.g. Binance) |
Top-rated mobile banking app | Occasional transaction blocks based on risk |
FSCS protection up to € 85,000 | Limited advanced crypto features |
3. Starling Bank
Starling Bank, another UK digital banking leader, supports crypto transactions with minimal restrictions. It allows fast transfers to FCA-regulated exchanges like Kraken and eToro, making it ideal for traders seeking reliability and speed.
Key Features:
- Exchange Support: Seamless transfers to FCA-regulated platforms
- No Crypto Fees: No additional fees for exchange transfers
- Security: Robust anti-fraud measures and secure banking
- Mobile App: User-friendly with real-time notifications
- Regulation: FCA-regulated for safety
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Fast, reliable exchange transfers | No direct crypto trading |
No fees for crypto-related transfers | Limited to FCA-regulated exchanges |
Strong security protocols | Fewer crypto-specific features |
Award-winning mobile app | May flag large transactions |
4. Wirex
Wirex, a Web3-focused platform, blends banking and crypto with a Mastercard-backed crypto card. Supporting 59+ cryptocurrencies, it’s perfect for users who want to spend digital assets directly or earn through staking.
Key Features:
- Crypto Card: Spend crypto at merchants accepting Mastercard
- Staking: Earn rewards on select cryptocurrencies
- Multi-Currency Accounts: Manage GBP, USD, and crypto in one place
- DeFi Features: Access to WXT token benefits and DeFi tools
- Fees: 0%-2% trading fees, €30,000 monthly spending limit
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Crypto card for every spending | Higher fees for some transactions |
Supports 59+ cryptocurrencies | € 30,000 monthly spending limit |
DeFi and staking opportunities | Limited fiat withdrawal options |
User-friendly app | Less regulated than traditional banks |
5. Lloyds Banking Group
Lloyds Banking Group, encompassing Lloyds Bank, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland, supports crypto transactions via Faster Payments. It’s a traditional banking option with a crypto-friendly stance, ideal for users prioritising stability.
Key Features:
- Faster Payments: Quick deposits and withdrawals to exchanges
- Wide Accessibility: Available across multiple UK brands
- Security: Strong anti-fraud measures
- No Direct Crypto Fees: Standard banking fees apply
- Regulation: FCA-regulated with FSCS protection
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Reliable traditional banking | No direct crypto trading |
Fast exchange transfers | Credit card crypto purchase banned |
FSCS protection | Limited to select exchanges |
Wide branch network | Cautious approach to crypto scams |
6. Xace
Xace is a UK-based fintech designed specifically for crypto-native businesses, such as exchanges, NFT platforms, and Web3 projects. Registered with the FCA as a small payment institution, Xace offers businesses and personal accounts IBANs for seamless fiat-to-crypto transfers, making it a go-to for crypto entrepreneurs and traders.
Key Features:
- Crypto Business Support: Tailored accounts for crypto exchanges, NFT platforms, and Web3 firms
- Multi-Currency Accounts: GBP and EUR accounts with UK Faster Payments and SEPA via IBANs
- Payment Options: Supports CHAPS, BACS, and virtual debit cards for crypto purchases
- FCA Registration: Registered under Payment Services Regulations 2017 (FRN: 911400)
- High-Risk Sector Focus: Welcomes industries often avoided by traditional banks
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Ideal for crypto businesses and traders | Bespoke pricing not publicly available |
Supports high-risk sectors | Limited to businesses and high net-worth individuals |
Fast fiat-to-crypto transfers | Less established than traditional banks |
FCA-registered for compliance | Fewer retail banking features |
7. NatWest
NatWest, part of the NatWest Group alongside Royal Bank of Scotland, takes a cautious but crypto-friendly approach. It allows transfers to FCA-regulated exchanges like Coinbase but imposes strict limits to mitigate fraud risks. It’s suitable for casual crypto investors but less ideal for high-volume traders.
Key Features:
- Exchange Transfers: Supports deposits to FCA-regulated platforms like Coinbase
- Transaction Limits: £1,000 daily and £5,000 monthly caps for crypto transactions
- Security: Robust anti-fraud measures and scam warnings
- Regulation: FCA-regulated with FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Debit Card Support: Allows debit card purchases on select exchanges
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Supports FCA-regulated exchanges | € 1,000 daily transaction limit |
No direct crypto fees | Credit card purchase banned |
FSCS protection | Blocks high-risk platforms like Binance |
Clear crypto policy transparency | Not ideal for high-volume traders |
8. Barclays
Barclays, one of the UK’s largest traditional banks, supports crypto transactions by allowing transfers to FCA-regulated exchanges like eToro and Kraken. While it doesn’t offer direct crypto trading, its high transaction limits and past partnership with Coinbase (2019) make it a reliable choice for crypto investors.
Key Features:
- Exchange Transfers: Supports deposits and withdrawals to FCA-regulated platforms
- High Transaction Limits: Up to £50,000 via online banking, £10,000 via app (post-verification)
- Security: Stringent transaction monitoring for fraud prevention
- Regulation: FCA-regulated with FSCS protection
- Debit Card Support: Allows debit card purchases on approved exchanges
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
High transaction limits for transfers | No direct crypto trading |
Supports FCA-regulated exchanges | Credit card purchase banned |
FSCS protection up to € 85,000 | Blocks transactions to Binance |
Strong security measures | Occasional transaction holds |
What Makes a Bank Crypto-Friendly?
A crypto-friendly bank goes beyond simply allowing transactions with cryptocurrency exchanges. Here are the key factors that define a crypto-friendly bank in the UK:
Seamless Exchange Integration: The bank allows smooth deposits and withdrawals to FCA-regulated exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or eToro without frequent blocks or freezes. For example, Monzo and Starling excel in this area.
In-App Crypto Features: Some banks, like Revolut, offer direct crypto trading, wallets, and staking within their apps, reducing the need for third-party platforms.
Regulatory Compliance: Crypto-friendly banks operate under FCA oversight, ensuring secure and compliant transactions. This is critical in the UK, where crypto is unregulated, and banks must mitigate risks like fraud or money laundering.
Support for Crypto Businesses: Banks like Xace cater to crypto-native businesses, offering IBANs and multi-currency accounts for seamless fiat-to-crypto conversions.
Flexible Transaction Limits: Crypto-friendly banks impose minimal restrictions on crypto-related transfers. For instance, Revolut has no cap on in-app crypto purchases, though withdrawals may have limits.
Security and Transparency: Robust anti-fraud measures and clear policies on crypto transactions build trust. Barclays, for example, supports secure transfers to FCA-approved exchanges.
Innovative Tools: Platforms like Wirex offer crypto cards and DeFi features, blending traditional banking with Web3 innovation.
How to Choose the Best Crypto-Friendly Bank in the UK
Finding the right bank that supports your crypto activities can feel like navigating a maze—especially in a market as complex as the UK. Whether you’re a trader, investor, or crypto-based business, choosing the right financial partner is essential. Here’s how to make a smart choice when looking for crypto-friendly banks in the UK:
1. Check Their Crypto Policy
Not all banks are on board with cryptocurrency. Some impose restrictions on transactions, while others fully support crypto integration. Always review the bank’s official stance on cryptocurrencies and see if they allow transfers to and from crypto exchanges.
2. Look for FCA Regulation Compliance
In the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) plays a key role in crypto oversight. Choose banks that align with FCA standards or work with exchanges that are registered under FCA guidelines to ensure transparency and legal protection.
3. Evaluate Transaction Fees and Limits
Crypto-related transactions can sometimes come with hidden fees or strict limits. Compare banks to find one that offers fair pricing, reasonable transfer limits, and no unnecessary restrictions on crypto trading activity.
4. Prioritise Security and Fraud Protection
With crypto, security is everything. A good crypto-friendly bank will have strong fraud prevention systems, two-factor authentication, and robust cybersecurity measures in place to protect your funds.
5. Explore Customer Support
Issues with crypto transactions can be time-sensitive. Make sure the bank provides responsive customer support—ideally with a team that understands the unique challenges of managing digital assets.
6. Read Real Customer Reviews
Nothing beats first-hand experience. Browse online forums, reviews, and crypto communities to learn what real users are saying about the bank’s crypto support, reliability, and user experience.
Choosing the right crypto-friendly bank in the UK isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building a secure, flexible foundation for your crypto journey. Do your research, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for a bank that’s behind the times.
Conclusion
UK’s crypto-friendly banks are paving the way for a seamless blend of traditional and digital finance. Revolut leads with its all-in-one app, offering in-app trading and wallets, while Monzo and Starling are known for their reliable exchange transfers. Wirex brings Web3 innovation with its crypto card, and Lloyds offers a stable, traditional option. Choosing the right bank depends on your needs—whether it’s direct trading, business support, or secure transfers. To enhance your crypto journey, tools like KoinX can simplify tax tracking and portfolio management, ensuring compliance and clarity in this dynamic market. Dive in with confidence, pick a bank that aligns with your goals, and stay ahead in the crypto revolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a crypto-friendly bank?
A crypto-friendly bank allows seamless transactions with cryptocurrency exchanges, supports crypto purchases via debit cards, or offers in-app crypto trading and wallets. They have minimum restrictions and ensure compliance with FCA regulations.
Can I buy crypto directly through my bank?
Some banks, like Revolut, allow direct crypto purchases within their app. Others, like Monzo and Starling, support transfers to FCA-regulated exchanges like Coinbase or Kraken for buying crypto.
Are crypto-friendly banks safe to use?
Yes, if they’re FCA-regulated, like Revolut, Monzo, or Lloyds. These banks use robust security measures like 2FA and anti-fraud protocols. Always verify the bank’s policies and avoid non-regulated platforms.
What fees should I expect with crypto-friendly banks?
Fees vary: Revolut charges 0.99%-1.99% per crypto trade, while Monzo and Starling typically don’t charge for exchange transfers. Wirex may have up to 2% trading fees. Check for withdrawal or profit-sharing fees imposed by the bank.
Which bank is best for crypto businesses?
Xace and Revolut Business are top choices for crypto businesses, offering multi-currency accounts and support for high-risk sectors like exchanges or NFTs. Traditional banks like NatWest are more cautious.
Why do some UK banks block crypto transactions?
Banks like HSBC and Santander may block crypto transactions due to fraud risks, regulatory concerns, or FCA restrictions on certain exchanges (e.g., Binance). Always check your bank’s crypto policy.
How do I choose the best crypto-friendly bank?
Consider your needs: direct trading (Revolut), exchange transfers (Monzo, Starling), or business support (Xace). Look for low fees, FCA regulation, security, and compatibility with your preferred exchanges.
