Core Insights - The Bank of England (BoE) is focusing on integrating blockchain interoperability into the U.K.'s national payments infrastructure [1][7] - The upgraded RT2 system aims to support 24/7 settlement and enhance cross-border payment flows through ISO 20022 messaging [2][3] - The BoE plans to establish a "synchronization lab" in 2026 to explore real-world applications of blockchain synchronization [4][7] Payment Infrastructure Upgrade - RT2, launched in April, underpins key U.K. bank transfer systems like Faster Payments, CHAPS, and Bacs [2] - The previous real-time gross settlement (RTGS) system was limited to business hours and outdated messaging standards, which hindered interoperability [2] - The new RTGS system aligns with international standards and aims to facilitate seamless global payment flows [3] Blockchain Synchronization - The BoE intends to utilize central bank money for settling tokenized asset transactions, potentially eliminating the need for stablecoins or intermediaries [5] - This approach could significantly drive blockchain adoption among banks, payment companies, and e-money institutions, as central bank liability is highly valued in the institutional hierarchy of money [5]