IG Group, a UK-listed investment and trading platform, this week rolled out direct cryptocurrency trading for retail investors, making it the first publicly traded British company to offer buying, selling, and holding of digital assets.
The new service — provided in partnership with U.S.-based crypto firm Uphold — includes exposure to major cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin and ether. Uphold will handle trade execution and price data, integrating its infrastructure directly into IG’s platform.
Simon McLoughlin, Uphold’s CEO, described the initiative as a significant step toward broadening crypto services in the United Kingdom.
“We want to give people better access to this asset class so they can participate in the evolving financial world,” McLoughlin said in a press statement. “Partnerships like this are so important in helping us achieve that goal.”
The launch extends IG’s product offerings beyond crypto derivatives, previously available only through contracts for difference (CFDs). CFDs allow investors to speculate on asset prices without owning the underlying securities, settling profits or losses based on the difference between entry and exit prices.
IG’s retail crypto rollout joins the firm’s existing stocks, indices, exchange-traded funds, FX, commodities, and derivatives offerings. The global investment firm also joins a roster of companies combining cryptocurrency trading with traditional financial vehicles, such as Bybit, Kraken, and Robinhood, to name a few.
Michael Healy, IG’s U.K. managing director, called the launch “a huge moment for IG and a major milestone in the UK’s crypto journey,” citing the country’s growing crypto adoption and increasing regulatory clarity.
Indeed, IG’s crypto launch follows recent moves by the U.K. government to standardize a crypto framework. In late April, the Treasury released two consultation papers, while the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) invited public comment on draft rules ahead of planned legislation in 2026 in an early May notice.
© 2025 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Stay ahead of the market by turning news insights into trading opportunities. With Coinhub Exchange, you can seamlessly buy, sell, and manage your digital assets, all in one secure platform. Take advantage of real-time market insights, deep liquidity, and fast execution for your favorite cryptocurrencies. Don’t just read about it — trade crypto now!
Disclaimer
The content of this article shown by Coinhub News, powered by The Block, is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Coinhub News and its affiliates are not a licensed financial advisor, legal advisor, broker, or tax advisor, and ... should not be considered as professional advice or a recommendation to engage in any specific investment, legal decision, or financial transaction. Cryptocurrency markets are highly speculative and volatile. Readers should perform their own independent research and consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or legal decisions. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Company of its affiliates. Additionally, the Company does not make any representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, timeliness, reliability, or completeness of any information in this article. By accessing this content, you acknowledge that any reliance on the information contained in this article is solely at your own risk. The Company is not responsible for any financial losses, legal disputes, or other damages that may arise from reliance on this content or from any investment or legal decisions based on the information provided. Investing in cryptocurrencies involves substantial risks, including the risk of losing your entire investment, and you should carefully consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
Read more
