Crypto, DeFi & Stablecoins - Tax Risks for Private Client Advisers

Introduction

Cryptocurrency is no longer a niche asset class. As digital assets continue to grow in popularity, HMRC is gaining unprecedented visibility into taxpayers’ crypto activities through the introduction of the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework. With rumours of increased HMRC enforcement activity from late 2026 onwards, understanding the tax treatment of crypto transactions has never been more important.

While early interest in cryptocurrency was largely driven by high-net-worth individuals treating it as an investment or speculative asset, corporate clients are increasingly embracing digital assets as an alternative payment system. Lower transaction costs can enable businesses to deliver better value to consumers, accelerating the adoption of crypto across the wider economy. However, cryptocurrency, DeFi arrangements and stablecoins present complex and evolving tax issues that many advisers are only beginning to encounter.

This webinar provides a practical examination of the UK tax implications of cryptocurrency investments, DeFi transactions and stablecoin arrangements. It is designed to equip private client tax lawyers and private client tax accountants with the knowledge needed to advise clients confidently and to understand the tax consequences arising from their clients’ activities in this rapidly developing area.

Register today to gain a clear understanding of the latest crypto tax issues and ensure you are prepared to advise clients effectively in an environment of increasing HMRC scrutiny.

What You Will Learn

The webinar will cover the following:

• How HMRC distinguishes between gambling, trading and capital gains treatment for cryptocurrency profits
• The UK tax treatment of decentralised finance (‘DeFi’) transactions
• The taxation of stablecoins and common issues arising from their use
• Current tax challenges and developments relating to NFTs
• The impact of residence and domicile status on crypto taxation for newly arrived individuals and former non-domiciliaries
• Opportunities for advisers in HMRC enquiries, dispute resolution and the development of a specialist crypto tax practice
• Practical case studies illustrating key issues and planning considerations

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Tuesday 15th December 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 2,400+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.