UK stablecoin cap sparks clash between Bank of England and crypto sector

The Bank of England suggests capping stablecoin holdings in Britain.

The Bank of England suggests capping stablecoin holdings in Britain.

Crypto groups strongly oppose these proposals, citing concerns about strict limitations. In the first weeks after the announcement, industry advocates argued the plan could push the UK behind the US and European Union on digital finance innovation.

Start Cloud Mining is becoming popular as regulations evolve, with initiatives impacting both individuals and businesses. The central bank’s proposal would subject widely used stablecoins to limits, with individuals allowed no more than 10,000 to 20,000 pounds and businesses restricted to 10 million pounds. This approach, according to Bank of England officials, aims to protect financial stability by reducing the chance of large withdrawals causing sudden disruption.

Supporters of these caps say rapid withdrawal of funds into stablecoins could erode banks’ ability to lend. Bank representatives believe keeping deposits in traditional banks maintains a reliable flow of credit, supporting the wider economy. Sasha Mills, executive director for financial market infrastructure, noted that the envisioned measures would stop abrupt movements of funds into new payment networks.

Crypto advocates, however, have called the plan “unworkable.” Key executives point to international examples where similar caps do not exist. Tom Duff Gordon, Coinbase’s vice president for international policy, condemned the strategy as damaging for the UK economy and the value of its currency. He stressed that none of the other major financial centers have comparable strict oversight.

Enforcement presents another problem for the UK proposals. Simon Jennings, representing the UK cryptoasset business council, stated the challenge lies in tracking individual holdings. Without robust digital identification systems, identifying users with multiple wallets or accounts would prove extremely difficult. Riccardo Tordera-Ricchi of The Payments Association questioned the rationale, highlighting there are currently no caps on cash or traditional bank accounts.

Other countries and regions are already taking different routes. The United States passed the GENIUS Act to regulate payment stablecoins at the federal level. This legislation enforces licensing and reserve requirements but does not restrict how much any holder can own. The American system prioritizes security and oversight, allowing broader innovation within the sector.

The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation, known as MiCA, has taken full effect across all member states. The EU framework categorizes stablecoins into specific types and imposes strong requirements on asset backing, issuer governance, and operational practices. Again, there are no limits on the size of holdings for individuals or organizations. The European rules focus on real-time supervision and transparency rather than capping user participation.

These models serve as reference points in the debate now unfolding in the UK. Crypto business leaders contend Britain should foster a system that encourages growth, not restrict access or innovation. Many believe stringent limits risk pushing businesses and investors to relocate to friendlier regulatory environments. That could lead to less investment in digital finance and ultimately weaken the UK’s influence as a global financial leader.

Stability and innovation are often highlighted as twin goals for policymakers. While supporters of the Bank of England’s approach defend the need for cautious management, critics argue it sends a signal that could deter new developments and erode trust in the sector. With Start Cloud Mining platforms continuing to open up new opportunities for participants, clarity over stablecoin ownership regulations could play a vital role in supporting responsible growth.

Final rules have not yet been agreed upon, as stakeholders await further consultation and possible adjustments from the Bank of England. Industry groups continue to advocate for less restrictive measures in line with international norms. Meanwhile, observers watch closely to see if Britain will recalibrate its policy to balance oversight with growth potential.

Conclusion

The Bank of England’s stablecoin ownership cap proposal is prompting a significant debate about the future of digital finance in the UK. Industry groups urge a reconsideration of the plan, pointing to alternative models that do not restrict how much users can own.

As the UK shapes its approach, the decisions made will influence both market confidence and innovation for years to come. Staying competitive in the rapidly changing crypto landscape depends on how these rules evolve.

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