The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has officially begun exploring a framework to introduce crypto as a regulated payment option for licensed gambling operators.
Speaking at the Betting and Gaming Council’s annual meeting in London today, Tim Miller, the UKGC’s Executive Director, revealed that the commission’s Industry Forum has been tasked with mapping out a “sensible” pathway for digital asset integration.
Regulatory Alignment with New Financial Laws
These exploratory discussions coincide with the government’s recently presented Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Cryptoassets) Regulations 2025. If passed, these regulations would place crypto-asset activities under the direct supervision of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Miller noted that the new rules are expected to take effect on October 25, 2027. Consequently, any policy shift by the UKGC would need to align strictly with this legislative timeline and the FCA’s emerging supervisory framework.
Combatting the Illegal Market
While no formal timetable has been established, Miller emphasized that the move is a response to overwhelming consumer demand. UKGC data indicates that cryptocurrency is currently one of the most frequent search terms driving British players to illegal, offshore gambling sites that lack essential safeguards.
Miller stated:
“Demand exists and will probably grow. We do now want to start looking at what the potential path forward would be to create a way for crypto assets to be used as a consumer payment option for licensed and regulated gambling here in Great Britain”.
A Unified Approach to Consumer Protection
Any potential rollout will involve a collaborative effort between the UKGC and the FCA. While the FCA will handle the authorization of digital asset firms, the UKGC’s role will remain rooted in the Gambling Act 2005, prioritizing crime prevention, fairness, and the protection of vulnerable people.
Miller described the initiative as a “tentative first step” in the broader battle against unregulated crypto gambling sites in the UK, particularly those illegally targeting self-excluded individuals.
