UK Recognizes Digital Assets as Personal Property

UK Recognizes Digital Assets as Personal Property

The UK has formally recognized digital assets as property under the new Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025 following Royal Assent, fundamentally altering their legal standing.

This legal change enables heightened security and protection for cryptocurrencies and NFTs, potentially enhancing market confidence and operations in the UK.

UK Recognizes Digital Assets as Property

The UK government has formally recognized digital assets as a new category of property by passing the Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025 . This move aims to provide stronger legal protection for these assets.

The legislation involved the Law Commission of England and Wales and UK Parliament, with Royal Assent from King Charles III. Digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies and NFTs, are now secured under UK law.

Legal Protections for Cryptocurrencies and NFTs

This legal change impacts cryptocurrencies and NFTs, providing them with protection akin to traditional property. The clear legal framework can bolster confidence among institutional investors and market participants.

By providing a legal foundation, the legislation could encourage institutional involvement and improve market confidence in UK-based digital asset markets. The framework includes ownership, inheritance, and theft recovery rights.

“This landmark legislation formally recognizes digital assets as a new category of personal property, enabling their ownership and legal protection under UK law,” said Emily Hunt, Chair, Law Commission of England and Wales.

Precedent in Legal Treatment

The recognition of digital assets as property sets a precedent in legal treatment, similar to earlier changes in other jurisdictions. The law is expected to enhance legal clarity for asset holders.

This development offers insights into potential regulatory and market shifts, potentially increasing on-chain activity within UK jurisdictions. The historical trend towards legal integration provides confidence for future growth in the digital asset sector.

For more details, refer to the UK Property Digital Assets Act 2025 official legislation document .