The Bank of England has unveiled a new consultation outlining its approach to regulating systemic stablecoins, marking a pivotal step in the UK’s digital currency framework.
- Bank of England launches consultation on new stablecoin framework.
- Proposal introduces limits on holdings and reserve composition.
- Treasury to decide which stablecoins are deemed “systemic.”
- FCA to oversee smaller issuers and consumer protection.
- Feedback open until February 10, 2026.
- Final rules expected to take effect next year.
The central bank is now inviting feedback from the public until February 10, 2026, with rules expected to take effect next year.
Stablecoin Reserves and Regulatory Scope
Under the proposed rules, major stablecoin issuers would be required to keep at least 40% of their reserves as non-interest-bearing deposits with the Bank of England, while the remaining 60% could be invested in short-term UK government bonds. During the initial transition phase, issuers may temporarily allocate up to 95% of their assets to government securities before settling into the 60% limit.
The Bank’s oversight will apply exclusively to systemic stablecoins — those with widespread usage that could pose risks to financial stability — while the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will handle consumer protection and smaller stablecoin regulation. The BoE clarified that tokens used mainly for crypto transactions without mainstream payment adoption will not fall under its supervision.
Individual and Corporate Holding Caps
In a move that mirrors central bank digital currency (CBDC) policies, the BoE also proposed holding limits of £20,000 per individual and £10 million per business, arguing that these restrictions are necessary to prevent instability from rapid capital migration. These limits, however, will not apply to wholesale usage within the UK’s Digital Securities Sandbox, which facilitates innovation in tokenized financial instruments.
His Majesty’s Treasury will determine which stablecoins qualify as “systemically important.” Once designated, these issuers will come under direct BoE supervision, ensuring they adhere to the reserve and stability standards outlined in the consultation.
A Controlled Path Toward Integration
Deputy Governor Sarah Breeden emphasized that the holding limits and reserve requirements are designed as transitional safeguards rather than permanent constraints. The goal, she said, is to enable stablecoins to integrate into the broader UK payments ecosystem without jeopardizing financial stability.
While the Bank’s approach aims to foster innovation under strict prudential oversight, critics argue that the proposed limits could stifle competitiveness. Some analysts warn that mandatory backing in government bonds could artificially increase demand for state debt and restrict private-sector growth in digital finance.
The consultation remains open until early 2026, with the Bank planning to finalize its regulatory framework in the second half of the year. Once enacted, the UK will join the growing list of jurisdictions — including the EU under MiCA — advancing formal rules for stablecoin operations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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Source: https://coindoo.com/bank-of-england-plans-20000-limit-per-person-in-new-stablecoin-rules/
