Coinbase UK CEO Predicts Stablecoins Will Enter Mainstream Payment Infrastructure by 2026
Keith Grose, Coinbase UK CEO, predicts that stablecoins will become part of mainstream payment rails globally in 2026. The growth in consumer adoption along with increasing regulatory clarity are key factors accelerating the use of stablecoins for everyday payments.
The Bank of England's evolving approach towards stablecoins has been welcomed, and the UK aims to lead with a competitive, well-regulated regime to secure London's role as a financial hub. The Financial Conduct Authority's agenda for 2026 prioritizes enabling stablecoins in everyday payment systems, while UK Parliament has recognized cryptocurrencies and stablecoins as legal property under new legislation.
On a global scale, momentum includes the US GENIUS Act providing federal guidance for stablecoin issuers and platforms. In the European Union, the MiCA regulation has boosted euro-stablecoin activity, with the market capitalization doubling following its rollout.
Dollar-backed stablecoins dominate worldwide, with over $260 billion in circulation in the third quarter of 2025. Euro-stablecoins are also gaining traction, evidenced by the EURC transfer volume on Coinbase's Base Layer 2 network exceeding $70 million, illustrating cross-border stablecoin use.
Coinbase aims to foster an inclusive digital economy with stablecoins and views 2026 as a watershed year for stablecoins to become standard instruments in everyday finance.
