Crypto Donations to UK Party Hit $97 Million

Two crypto billionaires donated a combined $97 million to the British political party Reform UK. This sum represents the largest donation to a political party in British history.

Senator Bernie Sanders criticized the move on social media on September 13. He accused the billionaire class of buying influence in right-wing parties globally.

Major Contributions to Reform UK

Ben Delo, co-founder of BitMEX, donated approximately $48.7 million. Christopher Harborne, a significant investor in Tether, donated a matching amount within 24 hours.

Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, thanked the donors for their generosity. He stated that the funds allow the party to compete in the next general election.

Legal History of BitMEX Founders

Delo pleaded guilty to violating the US Bank Secrecy Act in February 2022. He agreed to pay a $10 million criminal fine for anti-money laundering failures.

Delo received a 30-month probation sentence. President Donald Trump pardoned Delo and two other BitMEX founders in March 2025.

Political Alliance and Bitcoin Policy

Farage is a prominent ally of Donald Trump in Europe. He supported the US president in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 elections.

Reform UK has pledged to establish a national Bitcoin reserve if Farage becomes prime minister. This mirrors the policy proposed by the US administration. The story was reported by GN markets/crypto (en-US).