Market News

UK Officially Recognizes Bitcoin and Crypto as Legal Property Assets

In a landmark decision, the UK has officially recognized cryptocurrencies as legal property under English law, a move finalized with the Royal Assent of the Property (Digital Assets etc.) Act 2025.

This new legislation solidifies the status of Bitcoin, stablecoins, and other digital assets as personal property, providing clearer ownership rights for holders.

While this law does not create new regulations for crypto transactions, it empowers owners to assert legal claims in cases of theft or loss more effectively.

UK courts had hinted at this recognition prior, treating cryptocurrencies as property in key rulings dating back to a 2019 high court case involving Bitcoin.

This legal shift offers enhanced rights to creditors and insolvency practitioners, facilitating the listing of digital assets during bankruptcies.

Despite this positive change, the act does not establish comprehensive rules for crypto exchanges or taxation frameworks, leaving these aspects to the discretion of regulators.

A notable side effect of this evolving legal landscape is the recent surge in interest from investors and political donations tied to digital currencies.

This growing engagement underscores the intersection of cryptocurrency with political funding, an area currently facing scrutiny over transparency and regulation.

As governments and investors adapt to this new reality, the implications for the future of Bitcoin and the broader crypto market remain significant.

Overall, the UK's legislative changes could pave the way for advancing crypto’s role in both financial systems and political discourse.