Liverpool has been crowned the UK’s new crypto capital, topping the charts for digital asset engagement in a nationwide study of online habits.
Key Takeaways:
- Liverpool leads the UK in crypto and stock market engagement, with 13% of residents actively investing.
- Regional online habits vary widely, with London favoring dating apps and Sheffield dominating TikTok and streaming.
- Despite growing digital engagement, many Britons report feeling fatigued by excessive screen time.
According to a report commissioned by telecommunications firm Openreach, 13% of Liverpool residents regularly invest in cryptocurrencies and monitor stock markets, more than any other city in the country.
The study, which explored the online behavior of Britons, paints a picture of a nation increasingly plugged into the financial and digital world.
Liverpool Leads UK in Bitcoin Interest, Becoming Crypto Capital
While London may lead in dating app usage and Sheffield dominates in TikTok and streaming, Liverpool stands out for its enthusiasm toward financial markets, especially Bitcoin.
The data underscores how regional differences shape online activity across the UK.
In contrast to Liverpool’s investment focus, Manchester showed a clear preference for Instagram, while Leeds leaned heavily into Facebook.
Sheffield residents led the country in both TikTok engagement and hours spent online, with 32% spending more than five hours a day connected, far surpassing the 11% figure in Brighton.
The national average time spent online sits at three and a half hours daily, though 20% of respondents admitted to clocking more than five hours.
Nighttime browsing was a common habit, with 64% going online between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., and 19% of users turning to YouTube during those hours.
The survey was released to mark the 25th anniversary of the UK’s first home broadband installation in Basildon, Essex.
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Lomond School became the first UK school to accept #Bitcoin for payments.
They will “look to build a Bitcoin reserve.” pic.twitter.com/xnBoDBJuip— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) April 11, 2025
But alongside the findings of increased connectivity, the study also revealed a rising sense of digital fatigue.
Around 43% of respondents felt they wasted time online, while 37% cited concerns over “doom-scrolling.” A third of those surveyed believed they would feel more relaxed if they spent less time on the internet.
“It’s fascinating to see how different parts of the UK are embracing the online world and adapting to it in unique ways,” said Katie Milligan, deputy CEO of Openreach.
“At the same time, it’s encouraging that many recognise the importance of taking time away from devices and digital connectivity.”
UK to Enforce Mandatory Crypto Trade Reporting
The UK will require crypto firms to collect and report detailed customer information on every trade and transfer starting January 1, 2026, as part of a sweeping effort to strengthen tax compliance and oversight in the digital asset sector.
According to a recent statement from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the new rules will mandate that platforms record full names, home addresses, and tax identification numbers for all users.
Each transaction must also be logged with specifics such as the cryptocurrency used and the amount transferred.
The reporting obligation extends beyond individual users to include companies, trusts, and charities engaged in crypto activity.
Firms that fail to comply or submit inaccurate data may face penalties of up to £300 ($398) per user.
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