The UK financial landscape is witnessing a pivotal shift as traditional financial institutions increasingly embrace digital assets. In a landmark move, FTSE-listed IG Group has announced the launch of retail cryptocurrency trading for UK investors, marking a significant step in bridging conventional finance with the rapidly evolving crypto ecosystem.
Starting March 38 — a symbolic date reflecting the number of cryptocurrencies offered — IG Group will enable its customers to trade a diverse selection of 38 digital assets. This includes major names such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Dogecoin, and the increasingly popular DogWifHat, positioning IG as the first London Stock Exchange-listed firm to offer direct spot crypto trading to retail clients.
This strategic expansion underscores growing demand among UK investors for seamless access to crypto markets, driven by rising awareness and confidence in digital assets as a legitimate investment class.
👉 Discover how traditional finance is integrating crypto with real-time trading tools.
Strategic Collaboration with Uphold for Secure Execution
IG Group’s entry into the crypto space is made possible through a key partnership with Uphold, a regulated digital asset platform known for its robust infrastructure and compliance framework. Under this collaboration, Uphold will handle both order execution and custody services, allowing IG to focus on user experience and market access without building complex in-house blockchain systems.
This outsourcing model reflects a broader trend among financial institutions: leveraging specialized crypto platforms to reduce operational risk, accelerate deployment, and ensure regulatory alignment during a period of evolving oversight.
It's important to note that while Uphold provides secure storage, digital assets held on the platform are not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This highlights a crucial distinction between traditional financial products and cryptocurrency investments — users must be aware that crypto holdings fall outside standard consumer protection frameworks.
Additionally, trading will be available on a full cash basis only, with no leverage permitted. This conservative approach aligns with regulatory expectations and emphasizes capital preservation, especially given the volatility inherent in crypto markets.
Rising Demand for Crypto Among UK Investors
The timing of IG Group’s launch coincides with increasing institutional and retail interest in digital assets across the United Kingdom. According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), approximately 12% of UK adults now own some form of cryptocurrency, up significantly from just 4.4% in 2021.
Moreover, a 2024 survey revealed that crypto awareness has reached 93% of the adult population, signaling widespread familiarity even among non-holders. This growing appetite is further supported by recent government actions.
Just weeks prior to IG’s announcement, the UK government leaked draft regulations aimed at integrating cryptoassets into existing financial frameworks — including consumer protection laws, anti-market abuse rules, and capital adequacy requirements. As Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized, these measures are designed to “drive growth and protect consumers,” reinforcing trust in the sector.
By launching now, IG positions itself at the forefront of this transformation, offering its established client base a familiar interface — already trusted for stock trading and spread betting — to access digital assets without migrating to third-party platforms like Revolut, eToro, or Coinbase.
👉 Access advanced trading features and explore emerging digital assets securely.
Why This Move Matters for the Financial Industry
IG Group’s decision to enter the crypto market isn’t just about expanding product offerings — it’s a signal of legitimacy. As one of the UK’s most recognized financial brands, its endorsement adds credibility to cryptocurrency as an investable asset class.
Michael Healy, Managing Director of IG UK, told The Times: “Customer demand is reaching a tipping point.” This sentiment echoes across the industry: when mainstream investors start asking for direct exposure to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other tokens, financial firms can no longer afford to ignore it.
Furthermore, choosing to partner with Uphold rather than build internally reflects a pragmatic strategy. With the FCA still finalizing technical standards for digital asset custody and security, relying on an experienced provider reduces compliance uncertainty and speeds time-to-market — a smart move in a fast-moving sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which cryptocurrencies can I trade with IG Group?
A: IG offers 38 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Dogecoin (DOGE), and DogWifHat (WIF), among others.
Q: Is my crypto protected under the FSCS?
A: No. Digital assets traded through IG and held via Uphold are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Investors should be aware of this risk before trading.
Q: Can I use leverage when trading crypto on IG?
A: No. Crypto trading on IG is conducted on a full cash basis only, meaning you must fund your trades entirely with your own capital — no margin or leverage is allowed.
Q: Why did IG choose to partner with Uphold?
A: Uphold provides regulated custody and execution infrastructure, allowing IG to offer crypto services quickly and securely while minimizing operational risks during a period of ongoing regulatory development.
Q: How does this affect existing IG clients?
A: Existing clients can now access crypto trading directly within their current accounts, using the same trusted platform they use for stocks and spread betting — improving convenience and retention.
Q: What makes IG different from other crypto brokers in the UK?
A: IG is the first London Stock Exchange-listed company to offer direct spot crypto trading, combining institutional credibility with retail accessibility.
👉 Start your journey into regulated crypto trading with powerful tools and insights.
The Bigger Picture: Crypto Goes Mainstream
With the global cryptocurrency market approaching $3.3 trillion** in value and Bitcoin hovering around **$105,000, digital assets are no longer niche investments. They’re becoming integral components of modern portfolios — and traditional finance is taking notice.
IG Group’s move exemplifies how legacy financial firms are adapting to stay competitive. Rather than resisting disruption, they’re integrating it — carefully, responsibly, and with an eye toward long-term sustainability.
As more institutions follow suit, expect clearer regulations, better investor protections, and broader adoption. For UK investors, this means greater choice, improved access, and increased confidence in participating in the digital economy.
Core Keywords:
cryptocurrency trading UK, IG Group crypto, Uphold partnership, Bitcoin UK investment, Ethereum trading platform, Solana exchange, Dogecoin investing, digital asset regulation