Derivatives
Ben Delo Donates £4 Million to Reform UK, Totaling £8 Million in Contributions
Ben Delo, the British co-founder of the crypto derivatives exchange BitMEX, has made headlines with his latest donation of £4 million to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. This contribution brings Delo's total donations to £8 million in 2026, positioning him as the party's second-largest financial backer.
Delo's latest donation follows a previous £4 million contribution earlier this year, structured in two tranches of £2 million each. His initial commitment was announced in an op-ed in The Daily Telegraph, where he described his support as a response to the perceived failures of UK elites.
The timing of Delo's return to the UK is significant, as he relocated from Hong Kong before a new cap on overseas donations was implemented in March 2026. Delo has expressed his intentions to build a “war chest” for upcoming elections through his financial support.
Despite his controversial past, including a guilty plea for violations related to anti-money laundering at BitMEX, Delo received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump in 2025. He has emphasized that all his donations to Reform UK have been made in fiat currency, a crucial distinction in the current regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrency donations in the UK.
FAQ
Who is Ben Delo?
Ben Delo is the British co-founder of the crypto derivatives exchange BitMEX, known for his significant financial contributions to political parties in the UK.
How much has Ben Delo donated to Reform UK?
Ben Delo has donated a total of £8 million to Reform UK in 2026, including a recent £4 million donation.
What prompted Ben Delo's donations to Reform UK?
Delo's donations are a response to what he perceives as the failures of UK elites, as expressed in an op-ed he wrote for The Daily Telegraph.
What is the significance of Delo's return to the UK?
Delo returned to the UK before a new cap on overseas donations was implemented in March 2026, allowing him to contribute without restrictions.
Has Ben Delo faced any legal issues?
Yes, Ben Delo has a controversial past, including a guilty plea for violations related to anti-money laundering at BitMEX, but he received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump in 2025.