UK’s IG Group to Launch Retail Trading for XRP and 37 Other Cryptocurrencies
Highlights:
- IG Group introduces retail trading for XRP and 37 additional cryptocurrencies.
- The move marks the firm’s expansion into crypto and reflects the UK’s rising adoption of digital assets.
- IG becomes the first publicly listed broker in London to offer spot trading for XRP.
UK-based online trading firm IG Group, valued at $3.5 billion, is rolling out retail trading services for 38 digital assets, including major coins like XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum. XRP’s inclusion is expected to draw new users and give current traders more tools for managing risk and exploring opportunities.
IG Group Partners with Uphold for Crypto Launch
In collaboration with U.S.-based crypto platform Uphold, IG Group will enable retail users to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies starting June 3. This move makes IG the first London-listed broker to provide spot crypto trading. According to IG UK’s managing director Michael Healy, this marks a significant step forward in the UK’s crypto journey. Healy stated:
“This is a huge moment for IG and a major milestone in the UK’s crypto journey. Clients want access to crypto from a secure and regulated provider, and we’re ideally placed to meet that demand.”
Through the partnership, Uphold will handle custody and trade execution. However, investors should note that crypto assets held with Uphold are not protected under the UK’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Additionally, trading is limited to fully funded positions—no leverage is allowed.
Healy emphasized that the decision responds directly to rising consumer interest in XRP and other digital tokens, saying, “Customer demand is reaching a tipping point.”
Despite the announcement, XRP’s price has declined slightly. After peaking at $2.186 earlier today, it has dropped to $2.15.
Related Development: Uphold Expands XRP Utility
Uphold recently joined forces with Oracle Protocol and Flare Networks to launch an XRP-based product, allowing users to earn yield on their tokens using Flare’s FAssets system.
UK’s Crypto Momentum Builds
IG’s crypto expansion aligns with the UK’s broader push toward digital asset adoption. Regulatory bodies, including the FCA, are exploring rules for stablecoins and crypto custody. Meanwhile, government initiatives aim to create a safer and more robust framework for crypto investors.
A Gemini report highlights the UK’s rapid rise in crypto ownership. As of April 2025, 24% of UK adults reported holding digital assets—up from 18% the previous year. The UK is expected to surpass the U.S. in adoption by year-end.
At the Bitcoin Conference, Reform Party leader Nigel Farage pledged to pass a Crypto Assets and Digital Finance Bill if elected Prime Minister. He envisions transforming the UK into a global crypto hub and aims to establish a national Bitcoin reserve. However, the UK Treasury has yet to confirm any official crypto holdings.
Farage declared:
“We’re launching a crypto revolution in Britain. Our goal is to make London a global hub for digital asset trading.”
MicroStrategy’s Michael Saylor responded positively to Farage’s vision, expressing hope for the Bank of England’s future crypto strategy.
