Barclays Bans Credit Card Crypto Transactions Starting June 27 – Coincu

Barclays Bank has announced a ban on credit card use for cryptocurrency transactions effective June 27, 2025, affecting UK customers. This move underscores ongoing regulatory pressures within the financial sector.

The decision aligns with the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s efforts to curb fraud risks associated with credit-backed crypto purchases. The market is closely watching the ramifications for retail investors as similar policies may extend to other institutions.

Barclays’ Ban Aligned with FCA’s Crypto Regulations

Barclays has decided to prohibit the use of credit cards for purchasing cryptocurrencies. Effective June 27, 2025, this aligns with the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s regulatory directives. Barclays is adhering to growing regulatory frameworks, seeking to mitigate credit-related risks associated with crypto investments.

Immediate implications of this ban include restricting UK retail customers from using credit cards for direct cryptocurrency purchases. The UK Payments Association sharply criticizes this regulation, arguing it diminishes consumer freedom and innovation in the financial sector.

Market reactions highlight frustrations from industry players and consumers alike. Riccardo Tordera-Ricchi, representing industry voices at the Payments Association, emphasized, “We challenge the proposed ban on credit card purchases for crypto, as it unfairly equates legitimate investment activity with gambling … We believe consumers should be trusted to make informed decisions within their existing credit limits.”

Market Repercussions as Consumers and Advocates Push Back

Did you know? Barclays has previously imposed bans on cryptocurrency transactions, notably blocking payments to Binance in 2021. This pattern reflects broader regulatory efforts to manage consumer risk in volatile markets.

Bitcoin (BTC) currently trades at $106,961.84, bolstering a market cap of approximately $2.13 trillion, with market dominance at 64.69%, as per CoinMarketCap data. Trading volumes dipped by 32.91% over 24 hours, amidst minor volatility in the past months.

Coincu research insights underscore concerns over decreased retail activity due to tightened financial avenues. Anticipated outcomes highlight innovation hurdles within the crypto sector, driven by increasingly stringent credit-related controls.