The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) aims to prioritize stablecoin payment trials as its top goal for 2026, while also committing to finalize regulations on digital assets to maintain global competitive standing.
🔸 The UK financial regulator (FCA) announced that allowing domestic companies to trial stablecoin payments will be a top priority in 2026.
🔸 FCA's chief executive outlined a strategy for digital innovation, including finalizing regulations on digital assets and promoting the development of domestic stablecoins pegged to the British pound.
🔸 FCA is collaborating with the Bank of England to develop a comprehensive set of rules, including stablecoins, trading platforms, lending, staking, and custody services, expected to be implemented in 2026.
🔸 Despite a cautious phased approach, which has faced criticism, FCA has recently accelerated by opening a regulatory sandbox for stablecoin issuers.
🔸 Earlier this year, the UK passed the Digital Assets Act 2025, officially recognizing digital assets as a form of legal property.
