Barclays Invests in US Stablecoin Start-Up Ubyx

Summary

Barclays, one of the UK’s largest banks, has acquired a stake in U.S. stablecoin settlement startup Ubyx. The investment details were not disclosed. Ubyx, founded by ex-Citi executive Tony McLaughlin in March 2025, is building a clearing system for stablecoins and tokenized deposits, enabling users to deposit digital money from various issuers and currencies into existing bank and fintech accounts. Ubyx aims to promote interoperability in digital assets and help stablecoins achieve “cash equivalent status” for broader corporate use. The startup previously raised $10 million in a seed round led by Galaxy Ventures. Barclays’ investment comes as the UK moves toward formal stablecoin regulations. Industry observers note that this step by Barclays reflects the bank’s pragmatic approach, with stablecoin settlement infrastructure seen as crucial for the future of tokenized markets and for scaling stablecoins into mainstream financial systems.