BitMEX co-founder contributed 75% of Reform UK’s donations in Q2 2026
Reported by Cointelegraph · AI-assisted summary by ChikoCorp AI News Desk
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Summary
BitMEX co-founder Ben Delo contributed roughly 74% of the total donations received by the UK political party Reform UK in the second quarter of 2026, amounting to about $5.3 million out of $7.3 million. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and the party have accepted contributions from several figures tied to the crypto industry, prompting scrutiny over potential crypto influence on UK politics. Farage is under investigation following donations from crypto-linked individuals Christopher Harborne and George Cottrell, with Farage having resigned and then winning a by-election in 2026.
Why it matters
The source highlights concerns among UK lawmakers about the influence of cryptocurrency-related donations on political parties and policies. Discussions are underway about potentially making a moratorium on crypto donations permanent in response to these contributions. The political and regulatory response to crypto-linked funding could impact future campaign financing rules.
Key context
Ben Delo previously contributed $5.3 million to Reform UK in the first quarter of 2026. Delo and other BitMEX co-founders pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the Bank Secrecy Act but avoided prison and received pardons from US President Donald Trump in March 2025. Nigel Farage’s crypto-related controversies have triggered political investigations and electoral events, including a by-election he won with 63% of the vote.
Key numbers and entities
Ben Delo, BitMEX co-founder; Reform UK; Nigel Farage, party leader; Christopher Harborne and George Cottrell, crypto-linked donors; $7.3 million total donations in Q2 2026; Delo contributed approximately $5.3 million in Q2 and $5.3 million in Q1 2026; Farage won a by-election with 63% of the vote; US President Donald Trump pardoned BitMEX co-founders in March 2025.
What remains unclear
The source does not specify the exact policy changes or influence exerted by these crypto-related donations on Reform UK’s agenda. It also does not provide details on the outcomes of ongoing investigations into Nigel Farage or other involved figures. The broader impact on UK crypto regulations remains undetermined based on the text.