Cryptocurrency exchange giant Coinbase has bolstered its regulatory expertise by welcoming George Osborne, former British chancellor of the exchequer (2010-2016), to its global advisory council. The announcement, made on January 31, 2024, comes at a crucial time for Coinbase as it faces heightened scrutiny in the United States.
Osborne, a seasoned politician and financial expert, joins a distinguished council that includes figures like Mark Esper, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, and Patrick Toomey (R-PA). The company's global advisory council plays a crucial role in guiding the platform's strategy as it expands its footprint worldwide.
Faryar Shirzad, Coinbase’s Chief Policy Officer, expressed the company's enthusiasm for Osborne's inclusion, stating that the company was “pleased to have George join our council at an exciting time for us in the U.K. and globally. George brings with him a wealth of experience in business, journalism, and government. We look forward to relying on his insights and experiences as we grow Coinbase around the world.”
Osborne, in his advisory capacity, will facilitate connections between Coinbase and policymakers, aiding the company in navigating the regulatory landscape and fostering crypto-friendly regulations. His extensive background, which includes implementing austerity policies and stimulating business activity during his tenure as chancellor, positions him as a valuable asset for the company in engaging with government entities.
Currently serving as a partner at Robey Warshaw LLP, a boutique investment bank, Osborne emphasized the transformative potential of blockchain technology and its impact on financial markets. He stated, “There’s a huge amount of exciting innovation in finance right now. Blockchains are transforming financial markets and online transactions. Coinbase is at the frontier of these developments. I look forward to working with the team there as they build a new future in financial services.”
The collaboration between Osborne and Coinbase gained visibility in 2023 when Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong shared the stage with him at a fintech event in London. The partnership was further solidified during a fireside chat at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Coinbase's expansion efforts across Europe have been notable, with recent licenses secured in France, Spain, Singapore, and Bermuda. However, the company remains committed to maintaining its U.S. headquarters in San Francisco.
Osborne's addition to Coinbase's advisory council underscores the company's commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with regulators and policymakers, positioning itself for sustainable growth in the ever-evolving cryptocurrency landscape.
