- UK and US plan to align regulations on cryptocurrencies, focusing on stablecoins and capital markets.
- Industry leaders like Coinbase and Ripple pushed for urgent action, warning Britain is falling behind US rivals.
- Officials say the move could boost UK access to American markets and attract more US investment.
The UK and US are preparing to announce deeper co-operation on digital assets, marking a major step toward aligning regulations across the Atlantic. Chancellor Rachel Reeves met with US Treasury secretary Scott Bessent in London, where the two discussed greater collaboration on cryptocurrencies and capital markets. The talks, attended by crypto heavyweights like Coinbase, Circle, and Ripple alongside banks including Citi, Bank of America, and Barclays, were pulled together at the last minute after industry groups urged the UK to prioritize digital assets in any new US deal.
Stablecoins and Market Access at the Center
One of the key areas expected in the agreement is stablecoins—tokens tied to traditional currencies—which officials see as critical to bridging finance and blockchain innovation. Reeves has stressed that aligning regulations with Washington could unlock deeper access for British companies to America’s vast capital markets while also drawing in greater US investment to the UK. The urgency comes amid concerns that London risks losing its competitive edge, as more companies flock to New York’s exchanges for higher valuations and better regulatory environments.
Political Momentum and Industry Pressure
The push for this deal reflects the stark contrast between Britain’s cautious stance and Trump’s pro-crypto embrace in the US. UK firms have warned that strict oversight is holding them back compared to American rivals. Tuesday’s meeting revealed just how much focus has shifted toward digital assets, with participants highlighting what they called a “huge opportunity” for the UK. Reeves has also floated the idea of sandbox programs with the US, letting blockchain firms test digital securities in both markets—an idea echoed by SEC commissioner Hester Peirce.
Looking Ahead
As Trump’s state visit approaches, British officials expect crypto co-operation to feature in joint announcements between Sir Keir Starmer and the US president. With London facing political pressure to stay globally competitive, this alignment could prove pivotal in shaping the UK’s financial future. The message from industry leaders is clear: Britain must act quickly or risk being left behind in the next wave of digital finance.
