2026: Full implementation of cryptocurrency regulation policies in the US and EU, UK Brexit establishes an independent crypto regulatory framework

Looking Ahead to 2026, Global Cryptocurrency Regulation Will Enter a Critical Phase. Over the past few years, major economies such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have focused their policies on drafting regulations and setting institutional frameworks. As core legal structures are gradually put into place, regulatory focus is clearly shifting toward implementation and enforcement. Stablecoins, market structure, anti-money laundering, consumer protection, and tax systems are becoming the main regulatory themes, marking the industry’s official entry into a period of comprehensive compliance. For the crypto industry, 2026 will be a key stress test for whether cryptocurrencies can truly integrate into the traditional financial system.

United States: Full Institutionalization of Stablecoins, Clarity Act Clarifies Structure, SEC Launches Project Crypto

In the US, stablecoins are widely regarded as a major milestone toward full institutionalization. The GENIUS Act (, passed in July 2025, which is also known as the Genius Act, provides guidance for US stablecoin innovation and establishment legislation. Its final implementation details are expected to be officially announced in July 2026. The act establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for payment stablecoins, covering capital adequacy, liquidity management, and 100% reserve backing requirements. Issuers may include traditional banks. This move is interpreted as the US government’s attempt to balance innovation and financial stability, while also providing institutional support for the global status of the US dollar stablecoin.

Regarding market structure, the US Congress is pushing several bipartisan bills, with the Clarity Act (Market Structure Clarity Act) being the most prominent. The core goal of this legislation is to clarify the long-standing ambiguity over the jurisdiction and division of responsibilities between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). If the bill progresses, the CFTC is expected to gain clearer and broader regulatory authority over digital assets classified as commodities, such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), thereby reducing legal uncertainties in the market.

The SEC is also actively updating digital asset regulations. The agency is working to establish a formal token classification system to determine which digital assets qualify as securities. It is advancing a reform project called Project Crypto, aiming to adjust existing securities laws to accommodate blockchain technology development. Tokenization of real-world assets (RWA) is a key focus area, with initial pilot programs expected to begin in early 2026 within controlled environments.

Taxation is also a critical part of US regulation. Substantive progress is anticipated in federal digital asset tax discussions, potentially leading to new legislation to update current tax laws applicable to crypto assets. At the state level, some regions are adopting more flexible measures; for example, Arizona is considering offering tax exemptions for certain virtual currency transactions to attract industry growth.

European Union: Full Implementation of MiCA and Strengthening Anti-Money Laundering Measures

2026 will be the year when the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation is fully implemented. With MiCA coming into force, EU member states will shift from transitional registration and onboarding to more concrete regulatory frameworks. For example, in Spain, all crypto service providers must obtain a MiCA license by July 1, 2026, or face operational restrictions.

In addition to MiCA, the EU’s new anti-money laundering system will be implemented simultaneously, enforcing rules for crypto asset transactions, requiring information sharing during transfers, and significantly restricting anonymous transactions. Tax transparency will also be enhanced, with Spain planning to implement the DAC8 tax reporting directive in January 2026, bringing crypto asset transactions under more comprehensive tax regulation.

United Kingdom: Establishing an Independent Crypto Regulatory System Post-Brexit

Post-Brexit, the UK is pursuing a relatively independent regulatory framework. Led by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the UK aims to develop a crypto regulatory system centered on consumer protection and market integrity. Relevant regulations are expected to be gradually completed by the end of 2026, establishing the UK’s position in crypto finance after Brexit. (Source: Reuters)

Overall, 2026 symbolizes the industry’s transition from drafting to implementation. As frameworks become more concrete, industry players will face higher thresholds and costs, but they may also benefit from more comprehensive systems and broader mainstream capital participation.

This article, “2026: Full Implementation of US and EU Cryptocurrency Regulations, UK Establishing Independent Crypto Regulatory System Post-Brexit,” first appeared on Chain News ABMedia.