A cross-party group of UK lawmakers has launched an inquiry into why UK banks restrict or block accounts and payments for crypto firms and crypto-related consumers. The review focuses on the practical banking barriers that crypto companies face, including limits on opening accounts, processing transactions, and providing payment access. Lawmakers say the inquiry also considers whether these restrictions are affecting the sector’s ability to invest, compete, and operate effectively in the UK. The initiative follows the publication of the UK’s new crypto regulatory framework, which is scheduled to take effect in October 2027. Several outlets report that the inquiry is intended to examine the underlying reasons behind banking policies toward crypto, while also assessing the broader impact on the market. The inquiry is framed as a step to understand how banking access interacts with the evolving regulatory environment for crypto in the UK, and what changes, if any, may be needed to address the barriers identified.