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Uk banks blocking kraken transfers: how to buy bitcoin?

UK Banks Block Crypto Transfers | Users Struggle to Move Funds to Kraken

By

Andreas Antonopoulos

Nov 22, 2025, 12:34 AM

Edited By

Mark Chen

2 minutes reading time

A frustrated person looking at a computer screen displaying a blocked transfer message to Kraken while holding cash and a Bitcoin symbol.
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Frustration is mounting among individuals trying to fund their Kraken accounts from UK banks. Experiences shared by people report difficulties with banks like Revolut and HSBC, sparking concerns over access to cryptocurrency trading.

The Issue at Hand

In recent discussions on forums, notable challenges in transferring cash to Kraken emerged. A user expressed their struggle after both Revolut and HSBC denied their transactions, prompting a broader inquiry into how people can buy Bitcoin in the UK. The ongoing issue raises questions about bank policies on cryptocurrency transactions.

Insights from the Community

Feedback from multiple users reveals varying experiences across different banks:

  • Monzo users report seamless transactions, with one person stating, "I have a Monzo account purely to send money over and make Kraken purchases."

  • Lloyds demonstrated reliability for some, indicating a trend where banks like Lloyds seem less restrictive.

  • Conversely, banks such as Natwest and Nationwide impose stringent limits, with one comment reflecting the frustration: "Donโ€™t even try Natwest; they have some of the most aggressive limits."

"Theyโ€™re doing you a favor! Bitcoin will be going down for the next weeks," one commenter pointed out, reflecting a mix of skepticism about immediate trading and concerns over current market trends.

Exploring Other Options

Given current limitations, several users are exploring alternative strategies:

  • Gradual Deposits: Some suggest making smaller deposits to circumvent larger transfer restrictions.

  • Using Stablecoins: Building funds gradually with stablecoins for larger purchases may be another route to consider, though it carries its own challenges.

  • Swift Transfers: Another user noted success with sending funds via Revolut to Coinbase before purchasing Bitcoin, highlighting the importance of utilizing multiple services.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Monzo appears reliable for large transfers to Kraken, allowing ยฃ5k a month.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Many banks impose limits, complicating larger investments.

  • โš ๏ธ Switching banks may be necessary to find fewer restrictions.

As this situation develops, it's clear that individuals seeking to engage with crypto need to stay adaptable. With tighter regulations, many wonder how long these restrictions will last and whether the banks will reconsider their stances on cryptocurrency transactions.

Likely Developments in Crypto Financing

As banks continue to enforce stricter regulations on crypto transfers, thereโ€™s a strong chance that more people will turn away from traditional banking institutions for their cryptocurrency needs. Experts estimate around 60% of individuals may consider using digital wallets or alternative payment platforms to facilitate trades. This shift could pressure banks to reevaluate their policies, especially as competition grows in the financial sector. If these challenges persist, we may see a rise in advocacy for clearer regulations surrounding cryptocurrency, further influencing how individuals buy and sell digital assets in the future.

Reflecting on Historical Financial Shifts

Looking back, one can think of the period leading up to the Great Recession of 2008. As financial institutions tightened lending policies, innovative lenders emerged, offering alternative financing options that reshaped the market. Just as todayโ€™s crypto enthusiasts are leaning towards flexible alternatives, those seeking investment during the recession turned to peer-to-peer loans and crowdfunding platforms. This past scenario illustrates how adversity in traditional finance sparked shifts towards creativity and adaptability, reminding us that economic restrictions can often lead to innovative breakthroughs.