Tokenised GBP (tGBP) is a blockchain-based representation of the British pound, structured as a stablecoin backed by cash and short-term government securities. It is issued on networks such as Ethereum and is intended to enable digital payments, transfers, and financial applications while maintaining parity with GBP. ^[1]

Overview

Tokenised GBP refers to a digital version of the British pound issued on a blockchain, typically as a stablecoin pegged to sterling at 1:1. These tokens are backed by reserves such as cash or short-term UK government securities. They are created and redeemed through a minting and burning process that keeps the circulating supply aligned with the underlying assets. They are commonly built on networks like Ethereum, using token standards that enable programmable transfers and integration with digital financial applications. There are two main forms: stablecoins issued by non-bank entities and backed by reserve assets, and tokenised deposits representing the liabilities of commercial banks. In both cases, users convert fiat currency into tokens via bank transfer, receive an equivalent amount on-chain, and can later redeem them for fiat. Their use enables faster settlement, global transferability, and compatibility with decentralized finance systems, while relying on reserve management, third-party attestations, and oversight from regulators such as the Financial Conduct Authority and the Bank of England to ensure transparency and stability. ^{[3] [6]}

Features

Tokenised GBP is designed to maintain a stable value through full backing by reserve assets such as cash and short-term UK government securities, with supply managed through a minting and redemption process that aligns tokens in circulation with underlying funds. It enables programmable transactions on blockchain networks like Ethereum, allowing value to be transferred, integrated into smart contracts, and used within digital financial systems. This structure supports near-instant settlement, continuous availability, and cross-border transfer without relying on traditional banking hours or intermediaries. Additional features include compatibility with decentralized finance applications, where tokenised GBP can be used for trading, lending, or liquidity provision, as well as transparency measures such as reserve attestations and smart contract audits. The model typically involves custodial arrangements with regulated financial institutions and operates within emerging regulatory frameworks overseen by bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority, aiming to ensure asset backing, operational reliability, and user protection. ^{[4] [6]}