Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Edge England has partially softened proposals for an ownership ban on UK stablecoins as it pushes new rules for cryptocurrencies.
On Monday, the central bank said it planned to temporarily impose a cap on holdings of stable coins, which are cryptocurrencies tied directly to traditional assets such as real currencies.
The plans indicate that individuals will be limited to owning up to £20,000 in UK stablecoins, which are considered systemically important.
It says the limit for most businesses will be up to £10 million.
The Bank of England has been assessing the potential opportunities and risks associated with digital currencies over the past year.
Last month, Governor Andrew Bailey Said the UK “should take advantage” of stablecoins as part of the country’s financial system and said it would be “wrong” to be against them as a matter of principle.
In a new consultation document, the bank said it is “preparing for a future where new forms of digital currency can be widely used for payments alongside existing ones, providing valuable alternatives for the public”.
It said its proposed limits would include allowing stablecoin issuers to hold up to 60% of their assets backed by short-term government debt.
The bank said it is also considering central bank liquidity arrangements to “support systemic stablecoin issuers in times of stress.”
Sarah Breeden, deputy governor for financial stability at the bank, said: “Our aim is to support innovation and build trust in this emerging form of money.
Get free fractional shares worth up to £100.
Capital at risk.
terms and Conditions apply.
Advertisement
Get free fractional shares worth up to £100.
Capital at risk.
terms and Conditions apply.
Advertisement
“We have listened carefully to the feedback and have amended our proposals to achieve this, including how stablecoin issuers interact with the Bank of England.
“These proposals are fit for a future where stablecoins play a meaningful role in payments, giving the industry the clarity they need to plan with confidence.”