Bitcoin and Gold ETP Lands on LSE as U.K. Crypto Market Reopens

Bitcoin and Gold ETP enters the U.K. market, offering regulated BTC exposure with added stability following rule changes.

21Shares has strengthened its U.K. product lineup with the launch of a new exchange-traded product that combines bitcoin and gold. The listing follows recent regulatory changes that reopened the market to retail crypto investment products. Growing demand for regulated exposure has pushed asset managers to move quickly.

21Shares Targets Lower Bitcoin Volatility With Gold-Backed ETP

Switzerland-based asset manager 21Shares listed its Bitcoin and Gold ETP, called BOLD, on the London Stock Exchange on Jan. 13. The product offers investors regulated exposure to BTC without the need to hold the asset directly. BOLD trades like a regular stock, allowing access through standard brokerage accounts.

By pairing Bitcoin with gold, BOLD offers exposure to potential upside while adding a layer of stability. The structure aims to soften price swings compared to holding BTC alone.

BOLD is the third crypto-related product from 21Shares approved for U.K. retail investors. According to the firm, the combination aims to spread risk and offer some protection against inflation.

Retail Access Expands as Regulated Products Enter the Market

A recent change in U.K. regulation has opened the door for new product launches. In October 2025, the Financial Conduct Authority lifted a four-year ban on crypto exchange-traded notes for retail investors. Trading activity increased soon after the decision, as more products entered the market.

During December 2025 alone, crypto ETNs on the London Stock Exchange recorded about $280 million in trading volume. The surge placed the U.K. as Europe’s third-largest crypto ETP market by volume, after Xetra and SIX Swiss Exchange.

Regulatory approval has widened access for retail investors. Previously, exposure to digital assets often came through indirect or unregulated channels. Clearer rules and exchange listings now allow participation within familiar investment structures.

Regulated products like BOLD allow investors to use standard brokerage accounts, as well as tax-advantaged options such as ISAs and SIPPs. 

Competition within the U.K. crypto ETP space has also increased. Asset managers, including BlackRock, Bitwise, and WisdomTree, have introduced or expanded crypto-linked products following the regulatory change.