Ex-UK Chancellor George Osborne Now Advising Coinbase

• George Osborne Joins Coinbase's Advisory Council
• The Importance of Policy Expertise in Crypto Firms
• Osborne's Role in Coinbase's Expansion Plans

George Osborne Joins Coinbase's Advisory Council

The former U.K. Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, has taken on a role in Coinbase's (COIN) advisory council. Osborne served as chancellor from 2010 to 2016, and his appointment makes him the second former U.K. chancellor to join a cryptocurrency firm. The successor to his chancellor position, Philip Hammond, became an adviser for Copper in October 2021 and later assumed the position of the company's chairman.

The Importance of Policy Expertise in Crypto Firms

These appointments shine a light on the value cryptocurrency firms place on the knowledge and experience of past policymakers and regulators. The journey of compliance in the crypto industry can be turbulent, and this expertise is invaluable in navigating these challenges. Alongside Osborne, the advisory council for Coinbase also includes other prominent figures such as Dr. Mark T. Esper, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, and ex-Senator Patrick Toomey (R-PA). With Osborne's addition, the panel will expand to include ten members.

Osborne's Role in Coinbase's Expansion Plans

Osborne played a key part in an interview with Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong last year, where the possibility of the firm relocating outside of the U.S. was discussed. This was due to the need for a clearer regulatory landscape. Coinbase announced Osborne's integration during a time of rapid international expansion for the company. Licenses have recently been acquired in France, Spain, Singapore, and Bermuda, signaling a strong period of growth.

Edited by Jonathan Stoker