FILE PHOTO: A representation of virtual currency Bitcoin is seen in front of a stock graphLONDON - More people see crypto assets as a mainstream investment rather than a "gamble" as ownership of bitcoin and similar crypto currencies has risen to 2.3 millon adults in Britain this year, the Financial Conduct Authority said on Thursday.
But people increasingly see crypto assets as a potential investment, even though the level of understanding of the sector is declining, the FCA said in its fourth study into crypto assets ownership. The average holding has risen to 300 pounds from 260 pounds, reflecting price rises, while ownership remains skewed to professional men over 35 years old, the FCA said.
Sheldon Mills, the FCA's executive director for consumers and competition, said it was important for consumers to understand that the assets are largely unregulated.