14 October 2024

UK Government Proposes New Bill to Define Legal Status of Cryptocurrency Assets

The UK government has introduced a bill to define cryptocurrencies as personal property, enhancing legal protections for owners against fraud and ownership disputes.

UK Government Proposes New Bill to Define Legal Status of Cryptocurrency Assets

In a significant move for the cryptocurrency sector, the UK government has introduced a new bill aimed at clarifying the legal status of digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. This legislation seeks to establish that cryptocurrencies are classified as personal property under British law. Once the bill is enacted, it will provide essential guidelines for the legal profession to address ownership disputes, particularly in sensitive situations like divorce proceedings. Additionally, the proposed law aims to enhance protections for cryptocurrency holders, including both individuals and businesses, who may fall victim to fraud or scams in the digital asset space. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to fostering a safer environment for cryptocurrency transactions and ownership in the UK, ensuring that stakeholders are better equipped to navigate legal challenges related to their digital assets.