Top Crypto ETFs in the UK for 2026: Regulated ETF Options

Interest in crypto ETFs continues to surge as investors seek regulated and tax-efficient ways to access digital assets. While US markets now offer spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, the UK follows a different regulatory path. 

For 2026, UK investors can still gain compliant exposure to crypto through Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) and Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) listed on the London Stock Exchange. These products offer professional-grade custody, FCA oversight, and familiar trading mechanics, without the complexity of managing private wallets.

Key Takeaways

• UK investors can gain crypto exposure through FCA-approved ETPs and ETNs, not US-style spot ETFs

• Bitcoin and Ethereum remain the only widely accessible crypto assets for retail investors

• Physically backed products offer a safer alternative to direct crypto ownership

If you are interested in crypto trading, explore Bitrue and enhance your experience. Bitrue is dedicated to providing safe, convenient, and diversified services to meet all crypto needs, including trading, investing, purchasing, staking, borrowing, and more.

What Is a Crypto ETF in the UK Context?

Although commonly referred to as crypto ETFs, UK-listed products are technically ETPs or ETNs, not traditional US-style spot ETFs. The distinction matters from a regulatory perspective but not necessarily from an investor’s point of view.

Crypto ETPs in the UK are physically backed, meaning each unit is supported by actual Bitcoin or Ethereum held in institutional-grade custody, often with providers such as Coinbase Custody. These products track the underlying crypto price closely and trade on the London Stock Exchange just like shares.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) allows retail investors to access certain crypto-backed ETPs, provided they meet strict criteria. However, direct access remains limited to Bitcoin and Ethereum, reflecting the regulator’s cautious stance on investor protection.

Read Also: 11 Best Crypto ETF 2025 and Everything You Need to Know

Top Regulated Crypto ETPs in the UK for 2026

For 2026, the leading FCA-approved crypto ETPs focus on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and limited diversification strategies. Below are the standout options available on the LSE:

iShares Bitcoin ETP (IB1T – LSE)

Issued by BlackRock’s iShares division, this product is physically backed by Bitcoin and held in Coinbase Custody. It benefits from BlackRock’s global reputation, deep liquidity, and transparent structure, making it one of the most trusted crypto ETPs in the UK.

21Shares Bitcoin ETP (BTCH – LSE)

One of the earliest crypto ETP providers in Europe, 21Shares offers a straightforward Bitcoin tracker approved for UK retail investors. It mirrors the Bitcoin spot price and is accessible through most FCA-regulated brokers.

21Shares Ethereum ETP (ETHH – LSE)

This product provides spot Ethereum exposure, fully backed by physical ETH. It appeals to investors who believe in Ethereum’s long-term utility, particularly in decentralised finance and smart contract adoption.

Bitwise Bitcoin & Ethereum ETPs

Bitwise offers separate Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs listed on the LSE. These products have gained attention for their competitive fee structures, including promotional rates as low as 0.05%, making them attractive for cost-conscious investors.

21Shares BOLD ETP (Bitcoin + Gold)

Launched for 2026, the BOLD ETP combines Bitcoin and physical gold in a single product. The aim is to balance Bitcoin’s volatility with gold’s defensive characteristics, offering a more diversified risk profile.

Read Also: Ethereum ETF Inflows Beat Bitcoin for 3 Days Running

How to Invest in UK Crypto ETPs

Investing in crypto ETPs is straightforward and familiar for UK investors. These products can be purchased through FCA-regulated brokers such as Hargreaves Lansdown, Interactive Investor, AJ Bell, or platforms like eToro that support LSE trading.

Crypto ETPs trade during standard London Stock Exchange hours and have transparent daily Net Asset Value (NAV) pricing. Many products are eligible for ISAs and SIPPs, offering potential tax efficiency that direct crypto ownership cannot provide.

Before investing, always check whether your chosen broker supports the specific ticker and confirm any platform-specific fees.

Read Also: Ethereum ETFs Surpass Bitcoin Inflows for 5th Day Amid

Buy and Register on Bitrue

While ETPs offer regulated exposure through traditional markets, some investors prefer combining them with direct crypto trading. In that case, using a reputable exchange is essential.

Bitrue is a globally recognised crypto exchange offering access to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a wide range of digital assets. By registering on Bitrue, investors can diversify their strategy, holding long-term positions via ETPs while actively trading or staking crypto on an exchange.

Always ensure you understand the risks of direct crypto trading, including price volatility and custody responsibilities, before investing.

Key Considerations Before Investing

Fees for leading UK crypto ETPs typically range between 0.05% and 0.25% per year, often lower than the combined costs of trading, custody, and security associated with direct crypto ownership.

However, crypto remains a highly volatile asset class. Prices can fluctuate sharply, and while physical backing reduces risk, ETNs still carry some counterparty exposure. The FCA also restricts retail access largely to Bitcoin and Ethereum, limiting broader diversification.

Consulting a qualified financial adviser is strongly recommended, especially if crypto forms a significant part of your investment portfolio.

Read Also: BTC and ETH ETF Flows

Conclusion

For 2026, UK investors seeking crypto exposure must look beyond US-style spot ETFs. FCA-approved crypto ETPs listed on the London Stock Exchange provide a regulated, transparent, and accessible alternative.

 With physically backed Bitcoin and Ethereum products from reputable issuers such as iShares, 21Shares, and Bitwise, investors can participate in the crypto market while remaining within the UK’s regulatory framework. As always, balance opportunity with risk and invest with a long-term strategy in mind.

FAQ

What is the difference between a crypto ETF and an ETP in the UK?

UK products are ETPs or ETNs, not traditional ETFs, but they function similarly by tracking crypto prices on the stock exchange.

Are crypto ETFs legal for retail investors in the UK?

Yes, but only FCA-approved crypto ETPs backed by Bitcoin or Ethereum are available to retail investors.

Can I hold crypto ETPs in an ISA or SIPP?

Many UK brokers allow eligible crypto ETPs to be held within ISAs and SIPPs, offering tax efficiency.

Do crypto ETPs hold real Bitcoin and Ethereum?

Physically backed ETPs hold actual crypto in institutional custody, not derivatives.

Are crypto ETPs safer than buying crypto directly?

They reduce custody and security risks but still carry market volatility and investment risk.

Disclaimer: The views expressed belong exclusively to the author and do not reflect the views of this platform. This platform and its affiliates disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy or suitability of the information provided. It is for informational purposes only and not intended as financial or investment advice.