UK to unveil crypto and stablecoin regulatory framework early next year
- The UK will introduce unified crypto regulations, including stablecoins, in early 2025.
- New rules aim to simplify oversight and avoid restrictive staking classifications.
- Labour government aims to compete with EUs MiCA rules and US pro-crypto policies.
The United Kingdom is set to introduce a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and crypto staking services in early 2025, marking a pivotal shift in its approach to digital assets.
The announcement was made by the Economic Secretary to the Treasury Tulip Siddiq at City & Financial Globals Tokenisation Summit in London on November 21.
Initially slated for December 2024, the regulatory rollout was delayed due to the change in government following the election of Prime Minister Keir Starmers Labour administration in July 2024.
The upcoming UK crypto regulatory framework
The upcoming framework consolidates regulations for crypto assets into a single, overarching regime, a decision Siddiq described as simpler and more logical.
The framework aims to provide clarity in a rapidly growing sector that has faced uncertainty in the UK.
Stablecoins will receive distinct treatment under these regulations, as their functionality does not align with existing payment services rules.
Siddiq highlighted that staking services would also avoid being designated as collective investment schemes, a classification that could impose burdensome restrictions.
UK aims to align with the global crypto regulatory landscape
The UK governments renewed focus on digital asset regulation comes as it seeks to align with global developments. The European Unions Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations will be fully enforced by the end of 2024, offering regulatory certainty that has positioned Europe as an attractive market for the crypto industry.
Meanwhile, the US, under President Donald Trumps administration, has adopted a markedly pro-crypto stance, including the establishment of a White House crypto czar and SEC Chair Gary Genslers planned departure in January 2024.
The Labour government has shown its intent to catch up with international competition. In September 2024, it introduced a bill recognizing NFTs, cryptocurrencies, and carbon credits as property.
The new regulatory push reflects the UKs ambition to regain credibility as a crypto hub while addressing criticisms of the Financial Conduct Authoritys perceived stringent oversight.
By delivering a robust, streamlined framework, the Labour government aims to bolster the UKs standing in the multibillion-dollar crypto industry.
The post UK to unveil crypto and stablecoin regulatory framework early next year appeared first on CoinJournal.
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