UK Crypto Ownership Drops to 8%: Maturing Market Shifts to Bigger BTC/ETH Bets

New FCA/YouGov research reveals UK crypto ownership declined to 8% of adults in 2025 from 12% in 2024—the first year-on-year drop since 2021—reducing holders from around 7 million to approximately 4.5-5 million. Despite fewer participants, average portfolio sizes have grown, with a notable rise in holdings between £1,001-£10,000, reflecting a shift away from small speculative positions toward larger investments by more committed users.

Among remaining holders, Bitcoin and Ether dominate: 57% own BTC (up slightly after prior declines) and 43% hold ETH, while altcoin exposure remains significantly lower (e.g., 21% for Solana). This concentration points to a higher-conviction, risk-aware investor base prioritizing core assets over broader speculation.

The pullback follows market drawdowns, liquidations, and regulatory scrutiny that deterred casual entrants, even as public awareness stays high at 91%. Amid advancing UK rules—including digital assets recognized as property and upcoming retail BTC/ETH ETNs—the data signals a maturing market poised for structured growth through regulated, BTC/ETH-focused products.