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TLDR:
Former UK finance minister George Osborne has joined cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase as a global advisor. Osborne, who served as Britain’s chancellor of the exchequer from 2010 to 2016, brings a wealth of experience in business, journalism, and government to the company. In his advisory role, Osborne will help connect Coinbase with politicians and regulators to promote crypto-friendly regulations.
Key points:
- Osborne joins Coinbase as a global advisor to help shape the company’s regulatory strategy.
- His ties with Coinbase include previous interactions at a UK fintech event and the World Economic Forum.
- Coinbase has been expanding in Europe, recently securing licenses in France, Spain, Singapore, and Bermuda.
- The company is facing regulatory scrutiny in the US, with the SEC accusing it of violating securities laws.
A former UK finance minister has joined cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase as a global advisor, signaling the company’s efforts to strengthen its regulatory position. George Osborne, who served as Britain’s chancellor of the exchequer from 2010 to 2016, will contribute his expertise in business, journalism, and government to help Coinbase navigate the regulatory landscape. Coinbase’s chief policy officer, Faryar Shirzad, expressed excitement about Osborne’s addition to the team, stating that his insights and experiences will be valuable as the company expands globally.
Osborne’s role at Coinbase will primarily involve connecting the company with politicians and regulators to advocate for crypto-friendly regulations. During his tenure as chancellor of the exchequer, Osborne implemented policies aimed at reducing the budget deficit and stimulating business activity. He brings a wealth of experience in finance and a deep understanding of the economic landscape, making him a valuable asset as Coinbase seeks to grow its reach around the world.
Osborne’s association with Coinbase began last year, when he moderated a fireside chat with the company’s CEO, Brian Armstrong, at a fintech event in London. They further solidified their relationship at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Osborne engaged in a conversation with Coinbase’s chief financial officer. These interactions laid the foundation for Osborne’s current advisory role at the company.
Coinbase’s expansion in Europe has been significant, with the company obtaining licenses in several countries over the past few months. In addition to the recent licenses granted in France, Spain, Singapore, and Bermuda, Coinbase has been actively seeking opportunities for growth and regulatory clarity in various markets. However, the company is facing regulatory crackdown and allegations of violating securities laws in the US. This has prompted discussions within the company about potentially investing more abroad and even considering relocation from its US headquarters, although no formal plans have been announced.
Overall, Osborne’s addition to Coinbase as a global advisor signifies the company’s commitment to navigating the regulatory landscape and establishing itself as a key player in the cryptocurrency industry. With his extensive experience in finance and government, Osborne is well-positioned to help Coinbase engage with regulators and policymakers, ultimately shaping the future of crypto-friendly regulations.
