Barclays’ move into tokenized, regulated money reflects a broader push by major banks to connect traditional finance with digital asset rails, moving from pilots to production while operating within established regulatory frameworks.

The investment signals a trend of banks seeking exposure to stablecoin rails and interoperable token networks, with the aim of faster, regulated cross-border payments and settlements.

Ubyx, founded in 2025 and backed by Galaxy Ventures, Coinbase Ventures, Founders Fund, and VanEck, runs a clearing system to reconcile transactions across multiple stablecoin issuers.

Founder Tony McLaughlin brings two decades of payments experience from Citi, aiming to build a network where regulated firms can offer digital wallets and participate in Regulated Liability Network initiatives.

Backers span traditional finance and crypto, signaling blended investor interest in a platform that enables regulated, institutional access to digital money.

Barclays leaders emphasize interoperability—connecting tokens, blockchains, and wallets within regulatory boundaries to enable scalable tokenized money.

Early market reactions showed a modest lift in Barclays’ shares as investors welcomed banks’ forays into regulated, tokenized money solutions.

Barclays has taken its first equity stake in a stablecoin-related company by investing in Ubyx, signaling deeper engagement with regulated digital money infrastructure.

The investment aims to connect regulated issuers with banks and fintechs, though the exact amount was not disclosed.

Barclays’ broader activity includes joining a group of major banks exploring a stablecoin linked to G7 currencies, signaling coordinated interest despite uncertain timelines.

Regulators are tightening oversight of stablecoins, with bodies like the FCA and Bank of England shaping rules, creating a tension between innovation and systemic stability.

Rising stablecoin use and renewed interest in blockchain-based tokenization are occurring amid evolving crypto markets and political attention.