Reform UK leads fundraising with crypto donations

Reform UK topped UK fundraising in 2025 after major crypto donations, especially from Christopher Harborne, totaling £18 million. Their crypto-friendly stance has prompted regulatory scrutiny.

Reform UK has emerged as a leader in British political fundraising by accepting cryptocurrency donations, notably from investor Christopher Harborne. In May 2025, the party became the first in the UK to accept crypto contributions, resulting in a surge of donations. Harborne, a Thailand-based crypto investor and aviation entrepreneur, donated £12 million in August 2025 and an additional £3 million in November, making him one of Reform UK's largest individual donors. These contributions helped the party surpass both the Conservative and Labour parties, with total donations reaching approximately £18 million by late 2025. Reform UK's pro-crypto agenda includes proposals to lower capital gains tax on crypto, create a national Bitcoin reserve, and establish the UK as a global crypto hub. The influx of crypto donations has sparked regulatory discussions and concerns about foreign influence, with the Electoral Commission closely monitoring developments.