Coinbase taps George Osborne to drive EU crypto policy push

Coinbase Global (NASDAQ:COIN) has appointed former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne to chair its Global Advisory Council. The move marks a strategic pivot toward deeper global regulatory engagement as the cryptocurrency exchange seeks to expand beyond the United States. Osborne, who served as UK finance minister from 2010 to 2016, brings extensive experience in economic reform and international policy coordination to his new role.

He will be based in London and will focus on advancing Coinbase's interests in stablecoin payments, tokenized assets, and tax clarity in key jurisdictions such as the UK and EU according to financial reports.

The announcement comes amid heightened regulatory scrutiny across the crypto industry, with governments like the U.S., UK, and EU working to define a coherent legal framework for digital assets. Coinbase's chief policy officer, Faryar Shirzad, emphasized that Osborne's role will involve engaging with policymakers worldwide to support the development of pro-crypto legislation. This strategy aligns with the company's broader goal of integrating crypto into mainstream financial infrastructure.

Osborne's appointment also underscores Coinbase's growing political and financial influence. The company has historically been a major player in Washington, but it is now extending its lobbying efforts to Europe and beyond. Osborne's extensive private-sector roles-including chairing the British Museum and a partnership at Robey Warshaw LLP-add credibility and networks to Coinbase's global outreach strategy according to industry analysis.

Strategic Implications for Global Expansion

Coinbase's decision to elevate Osborne reflects its ambitions in the UK and EU markets, where crypto regulation is evolving rapidly. The UK is currently developing rules for stablecoin payments, while the EU's MiCA framework provides a structured approach to crypto regulation. Coinbase has positioned itself to benefit from these developments by promoting clear and consistent rules that support the integration of crypto into traditional financial systems.

The company is particularly focused on tokenized assets and cross-border crypto activity, areas where Osborne's expertise in fiscal policy and regulatory negotiation could prove valuable. Shirzad noted that Coinbase wants to ensure its voice is heard in the formation of new standards. This proactive stance is expected to help the firm secure favorable treatment from regulators in multiple jurisdictions according to market analysis.

Political and Regulatory Context

The timing of Osborne's appointment also coincides with a shift in the U.S. political landscape following the election of Donald Trump. Federal regulators have taken a more accommodating stance on crypto, dropping several high-profile lawsuits against industry players. Coinbase has been a leading donor in the sector, and the company's political strategy is now expanding to include global policy influence according to industry reports.

In the UK, Coinbase aims to promote stablecoin adoption and tokenized assets in capital markets. Osborne's background in economic reform and financial oversight positions him well to navigate the UK's evolving regulatory environment. His dual role at OpenAI, supporting its data-center expansion, further demonstrates his ability to manage complex cross-border policy initiatives according to financial sources.

Coinbase's broader strategy is not without risks. Critics have raised concerns that the crypto industry is becoming overly reliant on political influence, potentially favoring large firms over smaller players and open-source innovation. However, the company argues that regulatory engagement is essential for long-term stability and institutional adoption.

Investor and Market Reactions

The appointment has been viewed favorably by investors, who see it as a sign of Coinbase's maturity and strategic direction. The company's recent expansion into stock trading and prediction markets, including partnerships with Kalshi and the launch of tokenized equities, has already demonstrated its ambition to become a comprehensive financial platform. Investors are watching closely to see how these initiatives, combined with Osborne's advisory role, will shape Coinbase's market position .

Analysts also note that Coinbase's shift toward policy engagement mirrors a broader industry trend. As governments refine their approach to digital assets, companies with strong political ties and regulatory insight are likely to gain a competitive edge. This trend may push smaller exchanges to either adapt or exit the market, particularly in regions with stricter crypto regulations according to market research.

Outlook for the Crypto Sector

While Osborne's appointment is not a panacea for all of crypto's regulatory challenges, it signals a clear direction. The industry is moving toward integration with traditional finance, rather than disruption. This shift requires not only technological innovation but also political and regulatory coordination. Coinbase is positioning itself at the forefront of this transition, leveraging Osborne's expertise to influence the rules that will govern the next phase of crypto growth.

As the sector continues to evolve, the role of policymakers in shaping market outcomes will become even more pronounced. Coinbase's investment in global policy strategy highlights the increasing importance of political capital in the digital asset space. Whether this approach will pay off remains to be seen, but the company is clearly placing its bet on influence as a key driver of success.