UK Gambling Commission Eyes Cryptocurrency Payments for Licensed Betting Sites

The UK Gambling Commission is considering a significant shift in its regulatory approach, with plans to explore allowing gamblers to pay for their bets using cryptocurrencies. This move is linked to Britain's impending adoption of digital-asset regulations, which are expected to be finalized in 2026 and take effect in late 2027.

According to Tim Miller, the commission's executive director of research and policy, there has been growing interest among punters in using cryptocurrencies for gambling. As a result, the commission wants to examine the potential path forward for incorporating crypto-assets as a consumer payment option for licensed and regulated gambling in Great Britain.

The UK Gambling Commission is not alone in its consideration of cryptocurrency payments. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is also working on digital-asset regulations, which are expected to have a significant impact on the industry. While it remains unclear how these new regulations will affect the gambling sector, the commission's willingness to explore crypto payments is seen as a positive step towards innovation and reducing risks associated with illegal gambling sites.