Citi executives assert: Tokenization spells the end of traditional banks' 9-to-5 operations

Citi executives have publicly stated that the shift toward tokenization will fundamentally dismantle the traditional 9-to-5 operating model of global banking. By leveraging blockchain technology, financial institutions can transition to 24/7 real-time settlement, effectively eliminating the latency inherent in legacy banking systems. This evolution is driven by the ability to automate complex financial processes through smart contracts, which reduce the need for manual intervention and intermediary reconciliation. Citi is actively exploring these capabilities through its Citi Token Services, which facilitates cross-border payments and liquidity management on a private, permissioned blockchain. The transition signifies a broader industry move toward programmable money, where assets can be moved and settled instantaneously regardless of market hours. This shift is critical for the RWA market as it establishes the infrastructure necessary for institutional-grade, always-on financial services. Ultimately, the move suggests that the competitive advantage of traditional banks will soon depend on their ability to integrate decentralized ledger technology into their core treasury and payment operations.