Can You Buy Bitcoin on Trading 212? [2025 Guide]
Quick Answer: Can You Buy Bitcoin on Trading 212 in the UK?
No, UK residents cannot buy Bitcoin directly on Trading 212. The platform removed cryptocurrency derivatives (CFDs) in January 2021 following the FCA’s ban on retail crypto derivatives. This regulatory decision aimed to protect consumers from the high risks associated with crypto CFD products.
Why UK Users Can’t Buy Bitcoin on Trading 212:
- FCA Regulations: The Financial Conduct Authority banned crypto derivatives for retail investors in January 2021
- Regulatory Compliance: Trading 212 prioritises regulatory compliance and removed all crypto CFD products from its UK platform
- Focus on Traditional Assets: The UK entity now focuses on stocks, ETFs, and other regulated securities
- Future Possibilities: Following the FCA’s August 2025 decision to allow crypto exchange-traded notes (ETNs), Trading 212 is reviewing options to add crypto exposure in the future
This isn’t a limitation of Trading 212’s platform—it’s a regulatory requirement that affects all UK-based brokers. The platform remains an excellent choice for stocks, ETFs, and ISA investing, but Bitcoin buyers need an alternative solution.
Buy Bitcoin on eToro
- Minimum Deposit: $50 (via UK bank transfer)
- Copy top-performing traders across a wide range of assets
- FCA regulated and compliant with UK crypto marketing rules
- User-friendly platform with social trading and mobile app support
- Perfect for beginners and casual investors looking to follow expert strategies with ease
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Can EEA Residents Buy Bitcoin on Trading 212?
Yes! In October 2025, Trading 212 launched “212 Crypto,” a dedicated cryptocurrency account available to residents in select EEA countries. This is a major development for the platform, though availability is limited.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | October 2025 |
| Available Countries | EEA residents (excluding Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, and France) |
| Regulation | MiCA framework via Trading 212 Markets Ltd (CySEC) |
| Account Type | Separate crypto account |
| Trading Currency | EUR only (no conversion fees) |
| Trading Commission | Free (spread costs apply) |
| Custody Fee | Free |
| Wallet Transfers | Not available |
| Staking | Not available |
| Practice Account | Yes, available with virtual cash |
Key Limitations: While 212 Crypto allows you to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies, the service has some restrictions. Trades are settled off-chain, meaning coins aren’t directly held on the blockchain. You cannot transfer cryptocurrencies to external wallets or participate in staking.
What Are the Alternatives for UK Investors Who Want to Buy Bitcoin?
UK investors have several options to gain exposure to Bitcoin, either through direct cryptocurrency platforms or indirect methods via Trading 212 itself.
Option 1: Direct Bitcoin Investment with eToro (Recommended)
For UK investors seeking direct Bitcoin ownership, eToro is the best option. As an FCA-regulated platform with over 35 million users globally, eToro provides access to real cryptocurrency ownership alongside traditional assets.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cryptocurrencies Available | 70+ including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), CySEC, ASIC |
| Stock Trading Commission | £0 (commission-free for stocks) |
| Crypto Trading Fee | 1% per transaction (buy and sell) |
| Minimum Deposit | £10 (after initial £200 first deposit) |
| Withdrawal Fee | $5 (approximately £4) |
| Copy Trading | Yes (copy successful crypto traders) |
| Wallet Transfers | Yes (via eToro Money wallet) |
| Staking | Yes (for select proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies) |
| Practice Account | Yes (virtual portfolio available) |
Why eToro for Bitcoin: eToro’s main draw is its social trading feature, which lets beginners copy the strategies of experienced crypto traders. The platform combines cryptocurrency trading with stocks, ETFs, and commodities in a single account, which works well if you want different assets in one place.
Option 2: Indirect Bitcoin Exposure on Trading 212
While UK users cannot buy Bitcoin directly on Trading 212, they can gain indirect exposure through Bitcoin-related investment products available on the platform.
| Investment Type | Examples | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin ETFs | CoinShares Physical Bitcoin (BITP), Bitwise Physical Bitcoin | Tracks Bitcoin price through physically-backed ETF products |
| Bitcoin ETNs | Various exchange-traded notes | Debt instruments that track Bitcoin's performance |
| Crypto Stocks | Coinbase (COIN), MicroStrategy, Marathon Digital | Companies with significant Bitcoin exposure or crypto operations |
| Bitcoin CFDs | Not available to UK retail investors | Banned by FCA in January 2021 |
Limitations of Indirect Exposure: These products provide price exposure to Bitcoin but don’t offer the same benefits as direct ownership. You cannot transfer Bitcoin to a wallet, use it for transactions, or participate in the Bitcoin network. Additionally, ETFs and ETNs typically charge management fees that can reduce returns over time.
Option 3: Other Dedicated Crypto Platforms
| Platform | Cryptocurrencies | Trading Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | 240+ | 1.49% (standard) lower on Advanced Trade | Wide crypto selection publicly-traded company |
| Uphold | 300+ | 0.2%-2.95% spread | Multi-asset platform proof-of-reserves |
| Bitpanda | 200+ | 1.49% average | European users stocks + crypto |
How Do I Buy Bitcoin on eToro? Step-by-Step Guide
For UK investors who want to buy Bitcoin, eToro makes the process straightforward. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Create Your eToro Account
- Visit the eToro website or download the mobile app
- Click “Sign Up” and provide your email address and create a password
- Complete the identity verification process (KYC) by uploading a valid ID and proof of address
- Verification typically takes a few minutes to 24 hours
Step 2: Make Your First Deposit
- Navigate to “Deposit Funds” in your account
- Enter your deposit amount (minimum £200 for first deposit, then £10 subsequently)
- Choose your payment method: bank transfer (free), debit/credit card, PayPal, or other e-wallets
- Note: eToro uses USD as its base currency, so a currency conversion fee applies to GBP deposits
Step 3: Find and Select Bitcoin
- Use the search bar at the top of the platform and type “BTC” or “Bitcoin”
- Click on Bitcoin from the search results
- Review the Bitcoin price chart, market statistics, and sentiment indicators
- Click the “Trade” button to open the purchase window
Step 4: Configure Your Bitcoin Purchase
- Choose “Buy” at the top of the trade window
- Enter the amount you want to invest (in USD)
- Review the 1% trading fee that will be applied
- Set any stop-loss or take-profit levels if desired (optional but recommended for risk management)
- Ensure you’re buying the actual cryptocurrency, not a CFD (check the “X1” leverage setting)
Step 5: Complete Your Purchase
- Review all order details including the total cost and fees
- Click “Open Trade” to execute your Bitcoin purchase
- Your Bitcoin will appear in your portfolio immediately
- You can transfer your Bitcoin to the eToro Money wallet for added security if desired
Security Tips:
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account
- Consider using the eToro Money crypto wallet if you’re holding long-term
- Never share your account details or 2FA codes with anyone
- Start small to get familiar with the platform
How Does Trading 212 Compare to eToro for Bitcoin Investors?
Understanding the differences between these two platforms will help you make the right choice about where to invest.
| Feature | Trading 212 (UK) | eToro (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Bitcoin Purchase | Not available | Yes |
| Cryptocurrency Range | Not available | 70+ |
| Stock Trading Commission | £0 | £0 |
| Crypto Trading Fee | Not available | 1% per transaction |
| Bitcoin ETFs/ETNs | Yes (indirect exposure) | Limited selection |
| Minimum Deposit | £1 | £200 (first deposit), then £10 |
| FX Conversion Fee | 0.15% | ~0.5% |
| Withdrawal Fee | £0 | $5 (~£4) |
| Stocks & Shares ISA | Yes (free) | Via Moneyfarm (0.25–0.75% fee) |
| Copy Trading | No | Yes |
| Wallet Transfers | Not available | Yes (via eToro Money wallet) |
| Crypto Staking | Not available | Yes (select cryptocurrencies) |
| FCA Regulated | Yes | Yes |
| FSCS Protection | Up to £85,000 (stocks/cash only) | Up to £85,000 (stocks/cash only) |
| Best For | Stocks, ETFs, ISAs, long-term investing | Direct crypto, social trading, diverse portfolios |
Verdict:
- Choose Trading 212 if: You want to invest in stocks and ETFs with zero commission, use a tax-free ISA, and prefer the lowest possible fees on traditional assets. It’s a solid choice for buy-and-hold investors focused on UK and international stocks.
- Choose eToro if: You want direct Bitcoin ownership, access to multiple cryptocurrencies, social trading features, and the ability to copy experienced traders. It’s a good fit for crypto investors and those wanting a diversified portfolio across multiple asset classes.
- Use Both: Many investors use Trading 212 for their core stock and ISA portfolio while using eToro specifically for cryptocurrency investments. This approach lets you take advantage of each platform’s strengths.
What Are the Risks of Investing in Bitcoin?
Before investing in Bitcoin through any platform, you need to understand the risks involved. Bitcoin and cryptocurrency investments carry much higher risks than traditional assets.
| Risk Type | Description | Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Price Volatility | Bitcoin can experience 20-30% price swings in a single day | Only invest what you can afford to lose; consider dollar-cost averaging |
| No FSCS Protection | Cryptocurrency investments are not covered by UK compensation schemes | Use FCA-regulated platforms; never invest more than you can afford to lose |
| Regulatory Risk | Government regulations can impact crypto markets significantly | Stay informed about regulatory changes; use compliant platforms |
| Security Risks | Exchange hacks, phishing, and scams are common in crypto | Enable 2FA; use hardware wallets for large amounts; verify URLs |
| Total Loss Potential | Bitcoin could theoretically lose all its value | Diversify across multiple assets; never invest emergency funds |
| Tax Complexity | Crypto gains are subject to Capital Gains Tax in the UK | Keep detailed records; consult with a tax advisor |
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Bitcoin on Trading 212?
The answer depends entirely on your location and investment preferences.
For UK Investors:
- Trading 212 remains an excellent choice for stocks, ETFs, and ISA investing with zero commission
- For direct Bitcoin ownership, use eToro or another FCA-registered crypto platform
- Consider Bitcoin ETFs on Trading 212 for tax-efficient indirect exposure within an ISA
- Using both platforms strategically can optimize your portfolio and fees
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Terms apply. Your capital is at risk.
FAQs
Can you buy Bitcoin on Trading 212 right now?
It depends on your location. UK residents cannot buy Bitcoin directly on Trading 212 due to FCA regulations. However, select EEA residents can access Bitcoin through Trading 212’s “212 Crypto” service launched in October 2025. UK users can gain indirect Bitcoin exposure through Bitcoin ETFs and crypto-related stocks available on the platform.
Why doesn't Trading 212 offer Bitcoin in the UK?
Trading 212 removed Bitcoin and all cryptocurrency derivatives from its UK platform in January 2021 following the FCA’s ban on retail crypto derivatives. This regulatory decision applies to all UK-based brokers and aims to protect consumers from the high risks associated with crypto CFD products. It’s a regulatory requirement, not a platform limitation.
What's the best alternative to Trading 212 for buying Bitcoin?
eToro is the most popular alternative for UK investors wanting to buy Bitcoin directly. It offers 70+ cryptocurrencies, copy trading features, and is FCA-regulated. The platform charges a 1% fee per crypto transaction and requires a minimum initial deposit of £200. Other options include Coinbase, Uphold, and Bitpanda, each with different fee structures and features.
Can I buy Bitcoin ETFs on Trading 212?
Yes, UK users can invest in Bitcoin ETFs and exchange-traded notes (ETNs) on Trading 212. Options include CoinShares Physical Bitcoin (BITP) and Bitwise Physical Bitcoin. These products track Bitcoin’s price without direct cryptocurrency ownership. While this provides price exposure, you cannot transfer Bitcoin to a wallet or use it for transactions, and management fees apply.
How much does eToro charge for Bitcoin trading?
eToro charges a 1% fee on both buying and selling cryptocurrency, making the total round-trip cost 2%. There are no additional commissions for stock trading. eToro also charges a $5 (approximately £4) withdrawal fee when you move funds from your account. The platform uses USD as its base currency, so GBP deposits incur a currency conversion fee of approximately 0.5%.
Is my Bitcoin investment protected by FSCS?
No. Cryptocurrency investments, including Bitcoin, are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) in the UK. FSCS protection of up to £85,000 only applies to cash and certain traditional securities like stocks. This makes it even more important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to use FCA-regulated platforms with strong security measures.
Can I use an ISA to buy Bitcoin?
No. Cryptocurrencies cannot be held within a Stocks & Shares ISA because they are not recognized as qualifying investments under HMRC rules. However, you could potentially hold Bitcoin ETFs or crypto-related stocks within an ISA, though the tax advantages would only apply to these indirect investment vehicles, not direct cryptocurrency holdings.
What's the difference between buying Bitcoin on eToro vs a Bitcoin ETF on Trading 212?
Buying Bitcoin on eToro gives you actual cryptocurrency ownership—you can transfer it to a wallet, use it for transactions, and have direct exposure. A Bitcoin ETN on Trading 212 is a fund that tracks Bitcoin’s price without owning the cryptocurrency directly. ETFs are easier to manage and can be held in ISAs, but charge management fees and don’t provide the same flexibility as actual Bitcoin ownership.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority (2021). FCA bans the sale of crypto-derivatives to retail consumers. Available at: https://www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/fca-bans-sale-crypto-derivatives-retail-consumers
- Trading 212 (2025). What is the Trading 212 Crypto account? Available at: https://helpcentre.trading212.com/hc/en-us/articles/30717768082461
- Trading 212 (2025). What fees does Trading 212 charge for crypto trading? Available at: https://helpcentre.trading212.com/hc/en-us/articles/30752021087005
- eToro (2025). eToro Fees: What they are and how they’re calculated. Available at: https://www.etoro.com/en-us/trading/fees/
- eToro (2025). New, clear and transparent crypto pricin
