Cryptocurrency Regulations Change Globally in 2026: What Users Need to Know

Global Regulatory Changes in 2026

Cryptocurrency regulations will undergo global changes in 2026 as more jurisdictions adopt policies for cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. These changes will impact cryptocurrency users in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Asia-Pacific regions.

New Framework Established by FDIC

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) of the U.S. published a proposal in December outlining how banks can issue dollar-linked stablecoins, in accordance with the GENIUS framework adopted by Congress in mid-2025. According to the proposal, banks must issue stablecoins through a subsidiary, with both institutions subject to FDIC reviews and audits to confirm financial stability.

American Legislators Prepare the CLARITY Act

The U.S. central bank, the Federal Reserve, revoked in December guidelines that prevented banks from engaging in cryptocurrency-related activities, paving the way for customer asset custodianship and the provision of other cryptocurrency services in 2026. Cryptocurrency investors can also expect U.S. legislators to adopt the CLARITY Act in 2026, a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies that will detail taxation, asset classification, and issuance guidelines.

Regulations in the United Kingdom

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom is set to publish final regulations for the cryptocurrency industry in 2026, which will include anti-money laundering (AML) measures and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements similar to those of traditional financial markets.

Regulations in Hong Kong and China

Lawmakers in Hong Kong have advanced legislation to regulate stablecoins, which will undergo reviews and negotiations before being sent to the chief executive, with expectations for it to become law in 2026. Meanwhile, the central government of China has wavered on cryptocurrency policy, imposing a new ban on cryptocurrencies in December.