UK Banks Impose Restrictions on Crypto: Industry Frustrated

• UK banks are making it increasingly difficult for crypto companies to operate by imposing additional requirements and restrictions.
• This is causing disruption and frustration in the industry, with many firms considering relocating to more crypto-friendly countries.
• Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s plans for the UK to become a global hub for financial technology are being hindered by these banking regulations.

Crypto Companies Facing Hurdles in the UK

Crypto companies in the United Kingdom are facing a tough road ahead as they encounter increased obstacles from local banks. Banks have been requesting additional documentation and transaction monitoring, while also cutting down on funds customers can move to digital currency exchanges. This has made it harder for firms to operate in the country, despite Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s vision of making the UK a global hub for financial technology.

Banking Regulations Affecting Crypto Industry

The recent banking regulations have posed a significant threat to the development of cryptocurrency in the UK. Natwest and HSBC have slashed their customers’ access to digital currency exchanges, while Barclays has frozen Binance transfers. As a result, many crypto companies are struggling to obtain essential banking services and their applications are often rejected or accounts frozen altogether.

SavingBlocks: A Case Study

SavingBlocks, a London-based crypto passive portfolio firm, is one such company that applied for a corporate account with nine different banks but was rejected by seven of them. Founder Edouard Daunizeau expressed his frustration at this situation, citing the lack of options available to companies in the UK and traditional banks’ reluctance to provide essential banking services.

Future Uncertain For Crypto In The UK

The irony of this situation is that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had previously expressed his intention of making Britain into a key fintech market; however, these restrictive banking regulations seem to be contradicting this goal significantly. With little help available from authorities so far, many crypto companies may soon be forced out of business – or relocate elsewhere – if this continues much further.

Conclusion

It remains uncertain what will become of digital currency companies in the United Kingdom as they face an uphill battle against restrictive banking regulations that make it hard for them to do business there. It will be interesting what measures will be taken by authorities or industry players going forward whether these issues can be addressed or not – only time will tell what becomes of crypto in Britain’s future!