The United Kingdom – particularly its industry-oriented government – are keenly observing the United States’ return to meaningful cryptocurrency regulation, particularly the recently passed GENIUS Act. Simultaneously, it has been advocating for a comprehensive global approach to regulating digital assets. Speaking at DigiAssets 2025, Jane Moore of the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) highlighted the agency's interest in the US legislation. GENIUS Act One of the most important pieces of bipartisan crypto legislation introduced this year, the GENIUS Act would lay out a framework for stablecoin issuance and trading.

UK's Perspective on Crypto Regulation

Lord Chris Holmes, a member of Britain's upper legislative chamber, has been a vocal proponent of "right-size regulation" for the cryptocurrency industry. He makes the case in favor of a corporate governance regulatory equilibrium, where innovation is encouraged, investment is welcomed, and consumer protection prevails.

"is good for innovation, good for investment, good for consumers, for creatives, for citizens and for countries" - Lord Chris Holmes

Lord Holmes stated strongly that having a regulatory-free environment is not something to aim for. As he explained, the only people who would want that type of landscape are people with bad intentions.

"The only people who want a regulatory-free environment are the grifters and the chancers" - Lord Chris Holmes

Thus he is optimistic that the UK is prepared to accept a new, more beneficial wave of regulatory change. He invites all to participate in FCA-led discussions on crypto legislation in the coming months.

"If you're seeking to set up, scale and develop a bona fide business, you should always want right-size regulation" - Lord Chris Holmes

Global Implications and Concerns

The increasing role of digital assets has caught the eye of European officials. This has raised fears of a situation where US dollar-based stablecoins come to overwhelm European retail payments. This serves as an acute reminder of the important geopolitical ramifications of cryptocurrency regulation. Moore stated that without a strong “culture of compliance,” those in the digital asset space will face severe consequences. This new approach will lead to safer products, protecting consumers.

The Future of Digital Assets

Lord Chris Holmes was clear on the increasing significance of digital assets. He sees that growth in their influence as inevitable, either in terms of trillions of dollars or share of GDP.

"we are into this space, we are interested in this space, we understand that whichever stat, whichever figure you take, digital assets are material and only going in one direction" - Lord Chris Holmes

This view reinforces the need for forward-looking, proactive regulatory frameworks. We must thoughtfully craft these regulations—not fearfully or recklessly—to temper risks and cultivate the promise of digital assets.