UK's FCA to Prioritize Stablecoin Regulation Amid Economic Growth Efforts

According to PANews, the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced plans to prioritize the regulation of stablecoins linked to fiat currencies such as the US dollar or British pound. This initiative is part of broader efforts by the UK to stimulate economic growth, which also include the digitization of financial services, enhancing international trade competitiveness, and expanding lending services to small businesses. In a statement to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, FCA Chief Executive Nikhil Rathi outlined the agency's intention to finalize digital asset regulations by 2026 and advance the issuance of a UK pound-backed stablecoin. Rathi emphasized the FCA's commitment to taking greater risks to support economic growth while maintaining consumer protection and market integrity. Rathi also highlighted the agency's focus on advancing artificial intelligence applications and prioritizing the migration of traditional assets to blockchain technology. He noted that the FCA aims to enable the UK's leading asset management industry to tokenize its funds, thereby increasing efficiency and competitiveness.