## FCA Prioritizes Digital Assets: Stablecoins and AI at the Forefront of 2026 Reforms

The UK financial regulator is preparing a major transformation of the digital sector, considering stablecoins as a key element in the development of payment systems. By 2026, FCA has planned comprehensive initiatives that encompass not only secure digital currency transactions but also the implementation of artificial intelligence and asset tokenization.

### Expansion of Regulatory Sandbox for Innovators

The FCA regulatory sandbox is opening up to companies wishing to develop and launch stablecoin solutions. This move aligns with an ambitious program aimed at accelerating product approval and digitizing financial services. FCA Chairman Nikhil Rathi emphasized that the organization will adopt a more flexible risk management approach, without compromising consumer protection and market stability.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Rathi promised to finalize the regulatory framework for digital assets and create conditions for the launch of British stablecoins in pounds sterling by 2026. This will have a cross-sector impact on the entire digital finance segment, as stablecoins could serve as a bridge between the traditional banking system and the crypto market.

### AI and Tokenization as Drivers of Transformation

Special attention is given by FCA to the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. The regulator actively supports 31 AI use projects by financial sector companies aimed at operational optimization and risk management.

Meanwhile, the asset management sector will gain the right to tokenize funds, opening new opportunities for digital transformation in portfolio management. This decision will foster the development of infrastructure for trading digital assets and enhance the competitiveness of the UK market on a global level.

### Comprehensive Financial Regulation Reform

Beyond digital assets, FCA is implementing a series of changes in the traditional financial sector. Rules for venture capital and alternative funds will be updated, consultations will be held on limiting pension management fees, and mechanisms for variable regular payments will be introduced.

Additionally, the regulator plans to develop a strategy for open finance, focusing on lending to small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as accelerating startup application processing and initial public offering procedures.

### Reorientation Toward Global Leadership

Previous steps by FCA regarding stablecoins date back to May, when the regulator solicited public comments on regulatory requirements for companies wishing to offer services in this area. The Bank of England, the UK’s central bank, has already expressed full support for these initiatives.

Against the backdrop of global competition for leadership in digital finance, the UK positions itself as a progressive jurisdiction where innovative projects receive favorable development conditions. It is evident that 2026 will be a pivotal year for the British crypto market and digital assets.