In This Article
Crypto ETFs provide an alternative way to invest in digital assets, particularly large-cap markets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. ETFs allow you to invest without directly owning the underlying cryptocurrencies — this makes them a popular choice with beginners who aren’t comfortable securing tokens in a private wallet.
This guide explores the best crypto ETF brokers in the UK; the top providers are ranked by their regulatory framework, supported markets, and fee structure. Read on to learn how to invest in crypto ETFs safely and what best practices to follow.
Crypto ETF Brokers UK Key Takeaways
- Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) track individual cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin without investors needing to own or manage their assets. Some ETFs track baskets of cryptocurrencies or even broader tech-related stocks from the blockchain and Web 3.0 markets.
- Many UK investors prefer ETFs over traditional crypto investments — they operate in a regulated environment, and there’s no need to store tokens in a self-custody wallet, which can attract cybersecurity risks.
- Research shows that the overall best crypto ETF broker is XTB, an FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected provider with free GBP deposits.
- Pepperstone, another FCA broker, is a good choice for broader market diversification, with ETFs containing Bitcoin, Coinbase, and other blockchain-related constituents.
- While ETFs offer a passive investing experience, the drawbacks include higher transaction fees, a lack of direct ownership, and limited supported markets, especially meme coins like Dogecoin and Pepe.
The 3 Best Crypto ETF Brokers in the UK
Consider these top providers when choosing the best crypto ETF broker in the UK:
- XTB: The overall best place to buy and sell Bitcoin funds in the UK
- Pepperstone: Regulated broker with diversified blockchain and Web 3.0 ETFs
- Admiral Markets: Invest in ETFs that track innovative cryptocurrency stocks
Best UK Bitcoin ETF Brokers Reviewed
Let’s take a closer look at the top ETF brokers that provide exposure to cryptocurrencies. Read on to make an informed decision.
1. XTB — FCA-Regulated and FSCS-Protected Broker With 0% Commission Bitcoin Funds
XTB is ranked as the overall best option for UK retail clients who want to invest in crypto ETFs in 2025. The broker supports the BTCetc Bitcoin Exchange Traded Crypto (BTCF.DE) market, which tracks the world’s largest digital asset via the XETRA German Electronic Exchange. The fund is 100% backed by Bitcoin, and investors gain exposure in a secure and regulated environment.
The platform holds licenses with multiple tier-one bodies, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It’s also a Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) member, which protects client funds up to the first £85,000.
XTB users can invest in the BTCF.DE fund at 0% commission, with a minimum investment requirement of £ 10. In addition, XTB lists over 1,400 other ETF products, as well as UK and international stocks, commodities, and as a forex broker.
GBP deposits and withdrawals are fee-free, and supported payment types include Visa, MasterCard, and bank transfers.
| No. Crypto-Related ETFs | 1 |
| Fee for Buying Crypto ETFs | 0% commission |
| Proprietary Wallet | No |
| Top Features | FCA regulated, FSCS protections, commission-free access to thousands of ETFs and stocks |
Pros
- Invest in Bitcoin ETFs at 0% commission
- A minimum investment requirement of just £10
- The platform is an FSCS member and holds an FCA license
- Supports thousands of other ETFs, plus stocks, forex, and commodities
- GBP deposits and withdrawals are fee-free
Cons
- Doesn’t offer altcoin ETFs — Bitcoin only
- Investments above €100,000 (approx £82,000) incur a 0.2% commission
75% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
2. Pepperstone — Invest in the ARKW ETF for Exposure to Bitcoin, Coinbase, and Other Crypto Stocks
Pepperstone is a popular ETF broker that also supports stocks, forex, indices, and bonds. While the broker doesn’t list individual crypto ETFs, it offers funds that track the broader blockchain markets. This approach enables UK investors to access the broader Web 3.0 sector across a range of assets, thereby mitigating the high risks associated with investing in a single cryptocurrency.
One example is the ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW), which holds Bitcoin and various Web 3.0 stocks, including popular cryptocurrency brokers such as Coinbase and Robinhood. The ETF also includes Circle, the stablecoin issuer that was recently listed on U.S. exchanges.
Pepperstone ETFs are backed by contracts-for-differences (CFDs), so UK traders can go long or short and apply leverage of up to 1:5. The broker offers competitive pricing — you pay just $0.02 (approx £0.015) per traded share, charged when you enter and exit the market. Account holders also receive free GBP deposits and a free demo account that replicates the financial markets in real-time.
| No. Crypto-Related ETFs | 1 |
| Fee for Buying Crypto ETFs | $0.02 (approx £0.015) per traded share |
| Proprietary Wallet | No |
| Top Features | Competitive trading fees, no minimum deposit, offers a free demo account |
Pros
- Supports the ARKW ETF, which tracks Bitcoin and various crypto stocks
- Authorized and regulated by the FCA
- Offers ETF leverage of up to 1:5
- Other supported assets include bonds, gold, and indices
- No minimum deposit requirements
Cons
- Doesn’t offer ETFs that track individual cryptocurrencies
- Overnight financing fees apply to ETF CFDs
74.8% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
3. Admiral Markets — Gain Exposure to Global Blockchain Companies From Just £1
UK investors can also consider Admiral Markets — a user-friendly broker with an FCA license and FSCS protections. The platform offers two crypto ETFs that track a basket of companies from the blockchain sector.
The first option is the VanEck Crypto and Blockchain Innovators UCITS ETF (DAPP) — holdings include Microstrategy, a US-listed stock that exclusively invests in Bitcoin. The ETF also holds a range of crypto mining companies, including CleanSpark, Bitfarms, and Riot Blockchain.
The second crypto ETF is Invesco CoinShares Global Blockchain UCITS (BCHN). This ETF also invests in blockchain companies from various niches, including crypto exchanges, mining chip manufacturers, and Bitcoin treasuries.
The UK broker has a minimum deposit requirement of just £1 when trading ETFs and stocks, and it accepts popular GBP payment methods, including debit and credit cards, as well as e-wallets.
| No. Crypto-Related ETFs | 2 |
| Fee for Buying Crypto ETFs | $0.02 (approx £0.015) per traded share |
| Proprietary Wallet | No |
| Top Features | Invest in the world’s most innovative blockchain firms, minimum deposit of just £1, a beginner-friendly platform |
Pros
- The best crypto ETF broker in the UK for beginners
- New users can get started with just £1
- Supports two blockchain-centric ETFs
- Trade online or via the iOS/Android app
Cons
- Spreads are wider than other UK brokers
- The demo account is available for 30 days
76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Our Methodology When Reviewing Crypto ETF UK Brokers
UK traders have access to over 100 ETF brokers — we developed a methodology to rank the overall best platforms for 2025.
FCA regulation and FSCS memberships formed our minimum requirements when short-listing crypto ETF brokers. These factors ensure UK residents can safely invest in ETFs and that their capital is protected up to £85,000, should the broker face financial difficulties.
The research team then explored supported crypto ETFs, ensuring brokers offer individual digital assets and broader blockchain markets. Other important factors include ETF commissions, minimum trade requirements, deposit fees, accepted payment methods, and support for other asset classes like stocks and gold.
We then tested our shortlist of the best UK trading platforms independently, covering the entire client journey, from registration, completing KYC requirements, depositing funds, investing in ETF markets, and withdrawing the account balance.
While these metrics enabled us to rank the best crypto ETF brokers in the UK, investors should conduct independent research to make an informed decision.
What is an ETF Crypto Broker?
Crypto ETF brokers enable UK residents to invest in exchange-traded funds that track the digital asset market.
Online brokers support two main types of ETF markets. The first market offers ETFs that directly track individual cryptocurrencies. One example is the BTCF.DE ETF, which is backed 100% by real Bitcoin. This framework means there’s a tight correlation between the Bitcoin spot price and the ETF value. UK brokers also offer ETFs with broader market access, as they track companies related to blockchain niches, such as Bitcoin miners, Web 3.0 investors, and crypto exchanges.
Most ETF brokers are regulated by the FCA and offer FSCS protections, ensuring UK investors have a safe environment to trade. Users open an account, deposit GBP, and choose their preferred ETFs. Unlike traditional crypto purchases, investors don’t need to manage wallets or worry about cybersecurity threats — the ETF provider is responsible for safeguarding assets.
How do Bitcoin ETF Brokers Work?
Bitcoin ETF brokers operate similarly to other online brokers.
Investors begin by registering an account, uploading a valid ID, and making a deposit — most brokers accept debit or credit cards and local bank transfers.
Brokers act as intermediaries between the ETF markets and investors, so you’re not purchasing assets directly from the platform. Instead, once you’ve chosen an ETF to buy, the broker executes the trade with the respective exchange. For example, the BTCetc Bitcoin Exchange Traded Crypto ETF is traded on the German Electronic Exchange, while the ARK Next Generation Internet ETF is listed on the Cboe Global Markets in the U.S.
While ETFs often trade on foreign stock exchanges, UK investors can make cost-effective investments. XTB, for instance, offers global crypto ETFs at 0% commission, plus fee-free GBP payments.
After you complete the ETF investment, its value rises and falls like traditional stocks. Most brokers allow investors to sell their ETFs in GBP during standard market hours. The proceeds can then be used to invest in other markets or withdrawn to a UK bank account.
Are Crypto ETF Brokers Legal in the UK?
The legal framework for UK crypto investors remains restrictive when compared to other global markets. The FCA banned crypto-related derivatives in 2021, with a core focus on high-leverage products, including CFDs, futures, and options.
The good news for UK residents is that the FCA recently announced it will lift its ban on crypto exchange-traded notes (ETNs), which offer a similar investment structure to ETFs. ETNs are debt instruments that track the performance of individual cryptocurrencies without granting investors direct ownership of the underlying assets. Anyone can buy and sell ETNs during market hours on stock exchanges, so there’s no requirement to use crypto exchanges.
For now, UK investors can gain exposure to the crypto space through ETFs such as ARK NEXT Generation Internet, which holds companies focused on Bitcoin trusts, exchanges, and mining.
Note that any ETF brokers located in the UK must be authorized and regulated by the FCA. Some offshore platforms also accept UK residents, and although they often hold licenses in other regions, consumer protections such as the FSCS don’t apply.
Are Bitcoin ETFs a Good Investment?
Bitcoin ETFs can be a good investment option, but investors should consider several key factors before proceeding.
Here are the pros and cons of Bitcoin ETFs:
Pros
- Gain exposure to Bitcoin without holding coins in a wallet
- Invest in Bitcoin via regulated markets and brokers
- Ideal for beginners who don’t feel comfortable using crypto exchanges
Cons
- No guarantee that the ETF value mirrors the Bitcoin spot price
- You don’t directly own the underlying Bitcoin when investing in ETFs
- ETF transaction fees are often higher compared to spot exchanges
How to Pick a Safe Cryptocurrency ETF Broker
Safety remains crucial when investing in digital assets — follow these best practices when choosing the best crypto ETF broker in the UK.
FCA Regulation
UK investors should only consider an ETF broker if it’s authorized and regulated by the FCA — the UK’s financial watchdog. Legitimate brokers display their FCA license number at the bottom of their homepage, which you can verify on the FCA register.
FCA-regulated brokers are required to follow strict guidelines, particularly about retail investments. For example, brokers must hold client-owned funds in segregated bank accounts, which ensures they can’t use the money for operating expenses.
Crypto ETF brokers are often regulated by other tier-one licensing bodies as well, providing additional regulatory oversight. XTB, for instance, holds licenses with the FCA, CySEC (Cyprus/EU), and DFSA (Dubai).
FSCS Protection
Choosing a crypto ETF broker that’s a member of the FSCS is equally important. The FSCS is a UK government-backed scheme that protects client losses if a member bank or brokerage goes bankrupt.
FSCS coverage is capped at £85,000, so if you’re planning to invest above this figure, ensure you have accounts with multiple ETF brokers.
Reputation
Assess the broker’s reputation in the public domain, using websites like Trustpilot to evaluate reviews from former and existing clients. The best crypto ETF brokers in the UK have largely positive reviews across thousands of ratings.
You can also check the “News” section on Google to see if any recent articles mention the broker. This extra step ensures you’re aware of any negative news, such as account closures or regulatory investigations.
Account Security
Look for crypto ETF brokers with strong security, such as two-factor authentication, account monitoring, and encrypted payment systems.
Crypto ETF Broker Fees Explained
Crypto ETF brokers charge fees related to commissions, spreads, management fees, and payments. Read on to learn how each fee type works.
Commissions
Similar to stocks, ETF trades incur standard commissions, paid when you enter and exit the market.
Pepperstone and Admiral Markets have a flat commission structure of $0.02 (approx £0.015) per share, so if you buy 100 ETF shares, you pay just $2 (approx £1.50). While competitive, XTB allows UK investors to trade ETFs at 0% commission, provided the total investment size remains below €100,000 (approximately £82,000).
Spreads
The spread, the difference between the bid and ask prices, acts as a hidden charge, as ETF brokers rarely display it on the order form. The best crypto ETF brokers in the UK have tight spreads of under 1%, but it’s wise to check manually before placing any orders.
Management Fees
The largest crypto ETFs are backed and managed by financial institutions such as iShares and Fidelity. These institutions apply management fees to offset buy and sell orders, custodianship, regulatory compliance, and other operating expenses.
Expect to pay anywhere from 0.5% to 3% for management fees, which are typically deducted by the ETF broker.
Payments
Some ETF brokers in the UK charge fees on deposits and withdrawals. We prefer brokers like XTB and Pepperstone, as they offer a fee-free service on GBP payments, including debit/credit cards and bank transfers.
How to Use a Crypto ETF Broker in the UK
This section explains how to invest in crypto ETFs in the UK. The walkthrough uses XTB — an FCA-regulated broker that offers 0% commissions and a beginner-friendly platform.
Step 1: Open and Verify an XTB Brokerage Account
The first step is to visit XTB to register an account.
Click “Create an Account” and complete the registration form by entering your name, home address, date of birth, and other requested information.
As an FCA-regulated platform, XTB has strict Know Your Customer (KYC) verification requirements, so you’ll need to upload a valid passport or driver’s license, along with a recent proof of address, such as a bank statement. The documents should be approved instantly.
Step 2: Deposit Funds
You can deposit funds once the XTB account has been verified. The broker offers fee-free deposits for UK investors, and payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, and bank transfers.
Although there is no minimum deposit, ETF investments must be a minimum of £10.
Step 3: Search for Crypto Market
XTB supports the BTCetc Bitcoin Exchange Traded Crypto market, which is similar to an ETF, as it’s 100% backed by BTC.
Use the search bar and enter “BTCF.DE” to find the market.
Step 4: Complete the BTCF.DE Trade
Now complete the order form to invest in BTCetc Bitcoin Exchange Traded Crypto.
Enter the investment size from £10 upward and confirm — XTB executes the order almost instantly.
The investment value fluctuates depending on the Bitcoin spot price, and you can cash out at any time during regular market hours.
Conclusion
ETFs are ideal for first-time investors seeking exposure to digital assets without the need for exchanges or crypto wallet management. The investing process operates similarly to stocks, with online brokers connecting you to the preferred market.
Our research suggests that XTB comes first among the best UK trading platforms. Its FCA-regulated status ensures safety, and investors can trade ETFs without paying commissions. The minimum ETF requirement is just £10, allowing beginners to risk sensible amounts.
75% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
References
- Bitwise Europe BTCF-DE:XETRA (CNBC)
- PS19/18: Restricting contract for difference products sold to retail clients (Financial Conduct Authority)
- Britain wants to lift a ban on a key crypto product — and catch up to the U.S. (CNBC)
- Welcome to the financial services register (Financial Conduct Authority)
FAQs
Can I buy crypto ETFs in the UK?
While UK investors can buy ETFs that track crypto-related companies like Coinbase and Microstrategy, spot ETFs remain prohibited for retail clients. The FCA confirmed that crypto ETNs will soon be allowed, with some experts predicting that ETFs may follow.
Does Vanguard offer a crypto ETF?
No, Vanguard doesn’t offer any crypto ETFs, nor does it plan to in the future.
What is the best crypto broker in the UK?
We found that XTB is the best crypto broker in the UK for investing in regulated Bitcoin funds like the BTCF.DE. UK investors who prefer spot trading crypto may consider Coinbase or eToro.
Is there a crypto ETF fund?
Yes, there are spot crypto ETFs for Bitcoin and Ethereum, with regulators potentially approving Solana and XRP applications this year. Some ETFs track broader crypto stakeholders like exchanges, miners, and Bitcoin trusts.
What is an ETF crypto?
An ETF crypto is an exchange-traded fund that tracks digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Crypto ETFs are traded on stock exchanges just like shares.
How does a crypto EFT work?
The largest crypto ETFs, such as those offered by Fidelity and iShares, are physically backed by digital assets. Investors gain exposure to the underlying cryptocurrency without managing a wallet.
What are the best crypto ETFs?
According to experts, the best crypto ETFs are iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund. These ETFs command significant liquidity and the most competitive management fees.
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