A recent survey by Openreach shows that Liverpool leads Britain in regular cryptocurrency investing and stock checking, with 13% of respondents taking part, the Guardian reported.
At the same time, HM Revenue and Customs has announced that from January 1 2026, UK crypto platforms must collect and report detailed customer data on every trade and transfer.
Liverpool Emerges as Crypto Capital
The Openreach study paints a clear picture: people in Liverpool are more likely than anyone else in Britain to invest in digital coins and follow market moves.
The survey questioned respondents across the UK about their online habits. In Liverpool, more users said they log on to crypto apps and trading sites than in any other city.
Wider Online Trends
Across Britain, the typical person spends three and a half hours a day online. One in five admits to going online for more than five hours and late-night browsing is common. Almost 64% report using the internet between 11 pm and 6 am, and nearly one-fifth say they visit YouTube at those hours.
Where Liverpool leads in crypto, other cities show their own strengths. London ranks highest for dating app use, while Sheffield tops the list for TikTok and streaming. In Manchester, Instagram is the most popular platform, with 27% of locals checking it regularly.
Digital Fatigue on the Rise
Despite high engagement, many Britons feel overwhelmed. Around 43% think they waste time online, and 37% worry about “doom scrolling.” A third say they would feel calmer if they cut back on their screen time.
Katie Milligan, deputy chief executive of Openreach, said it is encouraging that people recognise the need to log off now and then.
Also Read: UK Trade Groups Urge PM Starmer To Appoint Crypto Envoy & Develop Digital Asset Strategy
Stricter Rules for Crypto Platforms
In a bid to strengthen tax compliance and curb illicit activity, HMRC will require crypto exchanges and wallet providers to gather full names, home addresses, and tax identifiers for every user.
Each transaction must record the type of currency, the amount and the date. Platforms must send this data to HMRC regularly. Any failure to comply could trigger fines or license suspensions.
Government Clarifies Bitcoin Stance
At the same time, Emma Reynolds has ruled out a policy to build state reserves of Bitcoin. Some had speculated that the UK might follow other countries in adding crypto assets to national coffers.
Reynolds said the idea is not under consideration and that the focus remains on ensuring clear rules and strong investor protection.
Why This Matters?
Liverpool’s top ranking highlights how regional traits shape Britain’s digital habits. The city’s strong ties to finance and its active online community have combined to create a thriving crypto culture. But the rise of digital asset trading also raises concerns about money laundering and tax evasion.
The new HMRC rules mark a significant shift. By demanding detailed records of every trade, the government hopes to track down hidden gains and make sure digital investors pay their fair share.
Also Read: UK FCA Plans To Bar Retail Investors From Borrowing Money For Crypto Investments