The British Gaming Commission is investigating whether cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) can be used as a means of payment at licensed online casinos in the future. The possible admission was announced by Tim Miller, director of research and policy at the regulator, during a meeting of the Betting and Gaming Council in London.
UK is working on a new legal framework for crypto
The United Kingdom is preparing for new regulations for crypto assets. Companies that want to offer regulated crypto services must apply for a license from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The application period is expected to start in September 2026 and the regime will come into effect on October 25, 2027.
Providers who miss this deadline are subject to transitional rules. They may continue to offer existing products, but restrictions are imposed on new services.
Regulator wants to keep players away from illegal sites
According to Miller, consumer protection plays an important role. Analysis shows that “crypto” is one of the top search terms that land UK players on unregulated gambling websites.
Illegal online casinos fall outside the supervision of the British authorities and offer less protection to players. By allowing crypto payments from licensed providers, the Gaming Commission may want to prevent players from switching to unregulated platforms.
The regulator has asked an advisory group from the gambling sector to investigate how crypto can be integrated safely and responsibly as a payment method. No deadline has been set yet.
Crypto payments do not automatically mean crypto casinos
The Gaming Commission emphasizes that allowing crypto payments does not mean that crypto-based casinos can automatically operate under British supervision. Online casinos must continue to meet strict requirements in terms of reliability, financial control and consumer protection.
Source: https://newsbit.nl/britse-kansspelcommissie-onderzoekt-cryptobetalingen-bij-online-casinos/
