Standard Chartered to expand institutional crypto and RWA custody to Singapore
RWA Signal Insight
InfrastructureStandard Chartered has announced plans to launch institutional-grade custody services for cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and tokenized real-world assets in Singapore. This expansion targets institutional and accredited corporate clients, integrating digital asset management into the bank's existing financing and securities-services division. By leveraging its custody arm, Zodia, the bank aims to support the full lifecycle of assets, from traditional holdings to tokenized versions. This move follows the bank's recent acquisition of the remaining stake in Zodia Custody and the launch of spot bitcoin and ether trading in Dubai. The initiative underscores the growing institutional demand for regulated infrastructure to safeguard digital assets in key financial hubs. As Singapore solidifies its position as a major digital asset center, Standard Chartered's entry highlights the increasing convergence of traditional banking and blockchain-based finance. This development is significant for the RWA market as it provides the necessary institutional trust and regulatory framework required for large-scale adoption of tokenized assets.
Key points
- Standard Chartered will offer digital asset custody in Singapore for institutional and corporate clients.
- The service covers cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and tokenized real-world assets within its securities-services division.
- The bank is expanding its digital asset footprint following the full acquisition of Zodia Custody.
- The initiative aims to support the entire asset lifecycle, including issuance and holding of tokenized assets.
Background
Standard Chartered is a multinational banking and financial services company headquartered in London, operating a vast network across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Zodia Custody, a firm founded by Standard Chartered and Northern Trust, provides institutional-grade custody solutions specifically designed for digital assets. These services are built to meet the stringent regulatory and security requirements demanded by traditional financial institutions entering the crypto space.