2026: A Major Shift in the Global Cryptocurrency Regulatory Landscape

The global cryptocurrency regulatory landscape is entering a period of significant transformation this year. Cointelegraph reported that significant changes are expected across the industry as the US, UK, and Hong Kong embark on institutional reforms. In the US, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) released a draft regulatory framework late last year that would allow the issuance of dollar-pegged stablecoins. Under this framework, banks will be able to issue stablecoins through their subsidiaries and undergo financial sufficiency reviews. The Federal Reserve (Fed) also lifted its guidelines restricting banks' cryptocurrency operations. Starting this year, banks will be able to provide cryptocurrency services such as custody and settlement. The Market Structures Act (CLARITY), which establishes a regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry, is also nearing passage. In the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has released its final cryptocurrency regulations, fully implementing anti-money laundering (AML), know-your-customer (KYC), consumer protection, and licensing regulations. Hong Kong is also pursuing legislation to regulate stablecoins, aiming for implementation this year.