UK Faces Potential Loss of Billions in Missing Bitcoin

According to Odaily, blockchain platform CoinPoker has revealed that British citizens may possess up to £34 billion (approximately $45.32 billion) worth of missing Bitcoin (BTC). The research indicates that as many as 720,000 BTC are unaccounted for in the UK alone. The report also cites data from the World Population Review, showing that the UK currently holds 18% of the world's cryptocurrency. Popular cryptocurrencies used in the UK include Litecoin (LTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Bitcoin (BTC). The report concludes that between 540,000 and 720,000 BTC are missing in the UK, translating to a potential loss of £25 billion to £34 billion. At current exchange rates, this could mean a significant economic impact for the country. Analyst David Bartram noted that some of this wealth might never be recovered. However, he added that it is worthwhile for individuals who once owned BTC to check old hardware and try to remember their passwords. Globally, it is estimated that around 3 million to 4 million BTC have been lost. These losses are attributed to forgotten wallet keys, damaged hardware, or transfers to incorrect addresses.