Bitcoin Self-Custody in UK Pensions ๐งต
If you believe self-custody Bitcoin is the optimal asset, what can you do with capital TRAPPED in a UK pension system?
Before 2021, UK pensions could access Bitcoin through derivative instruments in SIPPs. Then January 6, 2021: FCA banned crypto derivatives for retail investors.
The SSAS Solution ๐
Small Self-Administered Scheme (SSAS) = the ONLY pension vehicle allowing direct Bitcoin investment with self-custody in post-2021 UK.
Why SSAS works:
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You become trustee with direct investment control
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Direct Bitcoin investment (not derivatives)
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Avoids FCA ban entirely
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Established legal framework
Pension Scheme Comparison:
SIPP: Bitcoin banned (derivatives), no self-custody
Workplace Pension: No Bitcoin access, no self-custody
SSAS: Direct Bitcoin investment, self-custody achievable
Trade-offs: SSAS has higher costs & complexity, but offers full control.
How to Execute: The 7-Step Process
Phase 1: SSAS Setup
1. Create limited company & business bank account
2. Establish SSAS with experienced administrator
3. Complete HMRC compliance procedures
Phase 2: Bitcoin Acquisition
4. Transfer existing pension funds into SSAS
5. Set up account with FCA-regulated crypto exchange
6. Purchase Bitcoin on behalf of pension scheme
7. Create self-custody deed & transfer to hardware wallet
Critical Success Factors
๐ Document everything for compliance
๐ฆ Use FCA-regulated exchanges only
๐ฅ Work with experienced pension administrator
โ๏ธ Maintain trustee obligations throughout
The Bottom Line
SSAS isn't for everyone - it's complex and expensive. But if you have significant pension capital and believe in Bitcoin self-custody, it's currently the ONLY compliant path in the UK.
Self-custody doesn't remove fiduciary responsibilities. You're still a trustee with legal obligations.
But you achieve something impossible elsewhere: true Bitcoin sovereignty within your pension.
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*Not financial advice. Consult qualified professionals.*
beefbitcoinliberty
beefbitcoinliberty@nostrplebs.com
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A simple natural life. #bitcoin #woodland #gardening
Notes (5)
Collecting and drying various things from the garden at the moment:
- calendula for bathtime
- chamomile for tea
- lemon balm for tea
- tulsi/holy basil for tea, also used fresh in thai dishes
- dandelion for tea in the winter
Debarking recently felled larch in the woods with an axe. It's very satisfying to get the bark to peel off in huge pieces. Older/dead wood is not so fun and has to be scraped off in small pieces with a draw knife. Logs to be used for building a rain shelter. The bark is chipped and used on the paths in the garden veg plot.
First Kohlrabi ready for harvest. Absolute beauties, they're almost shimmering.
I've been enjoying making charcoal in the woods recently, using a retort kiln I designed and built myself. It's like a rocket stove with a smaller barrel inside which is packed with wood and allows the flammable wood gases to escape whilst not letting any air in. Here it is ready to ignite with a water heating system I'm experimenting with using the thermosyphon effect.