The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) lifted its retail ban on cryptocurrency exchange-traded notes (ETNs) in October 2025, but access remains heavily restricted. Bitcoin ETNs are classified as "restricted mass market investments," requiring investors to pass risk warnings, suitability tests, and cooling-off periods. These investments are not covered by financial services compensation schemes. Additionally, major banks like HSBC and Barclays have imposed restrictions on transfers to cryptocurrency exchanges, with some banks blocking transactions entirely. Critics argue that the FCA's "same risk, same regulation" approach is overly broad, equating Bitcoin with speculative tokens and driving investors to less regulated offshore platforms. From April 2026, crypto ETNs will be excluded from mainstream ISA tax-free accounts, limiting them to innovative financial ISAs and further restricting tax-advantaged options. These regulatory measures, intended to mitigate risk, may inadvertently push investors into riskier environments, undermining consumer protection goals.