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Crypto entrepreneur donates record sum to UK's Reform party

Ben Delo, a cryptocurrency billionaire who was pardoned by US President Donald Trump earlier this year, has made a £36 million donation to Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, marking the largest single contribution to the political movement.

LSN Malaysia · 12 September 2026

Crypto entrepreneur donates record sum to UK's Reform party

The substantial donation underscores the growing financial backing for Reform UK as the party continues to expand its presence in British politics. Delo, a British-born cryptocurrency entrepreneur, had previously pleaded guilty in the United States to violating the Bank Secrecy Act in 2022 but received a pardon from Trump in 2025.

The £36 million contribution represents a significant financial injection into Reform UK's coffers, potentially enabling the party to expand its campaign operations and political activities across the country. The donation comes at a time when Farage's party has been gaining momentum in British politics, positioning itself as an alternative to the traditional major parties.

Delo's background in the cryptocurrency sector reflects broader trends of tech industry figures engaging in political donations and activism. His pardon by Trump, who has become increasingly vocal in support of cryptocurrency development, highlights the intersection of digital finance interests and political influence in recent years.

The donation is likely to attract scrutiny given Delo's previous legal issues and the politically charged environment surrounding both cryptocurrency regulation and political financing in the United Kingdom. Reform UK's acceptance of the funds may prompt questions from political observers and regulatory bodies regarding the source and implications of such substantial contributions to the party's coffers.