Lloyds Completes UK’s First Tokenized Deposit Gilt Purchase
- Lloyds leads UK’s first tokenized deposit transaction with Archax, Canton CC +2.52% .
- Transaction showcases future finance possibilities.
- Tokenization enables speed and transparency in financial markets.
Lloyds Banking Group completed the UK’s first gilt purchase using tokenized deposits on January 7, 2026, involving Archax and the Canton Network public blockchain.
The transaction showcases progress in integrating blockchain with traditional finance, promising increased efficiency and transparency, although no cryptocurrency market reactions were immediately noted.
Lloyds Bank conducted the UK’s first gilt purchase using tokenized deposits on January 7, 2026. The bank collaborated with Archax and the Canton Network, marking a significant milestone in incorporating blockchain technology in traditional finance.
Key players in the transaction were Lloyds Bank, Archax, and the Canton Network. Lloyds issued tokenized deposits on the Canton Network to purchase a tokenized gilt from Archax. Funds were returned to a traditional Lloyds account following the purchase.
The transaction highlights how blockchain could enhance financial markets through instant settlement and transparency. Graham Rodford from Archax emphasized the game-changing nature of these benefits for institutions.
“This transaction shows how tokenised real-world assets can deliver real-world benefits for institutions. Instant settlement and enhanced transparency are game-changers, and we’re proud to work with Lloyds and Canton to lead the way in shaping the next generation of financial markets.” — Graham Rodford, CEO and co-founder at Archax
Surath Sengupta at Lloyds highlighted how tokenization allows assets to be transacted with greater speed and flexibility. This step aligns with the UK government’s exploration of digital securities under existing regulatory protection.
The transaction does not involve cryptocurrencies like ETH or BTC; it centers on tokenized sterling deposits and UK gilts. This illustrates a significant interoperability advance between digital assets and traditional finance.
Potential regulatory and technological outcomes include evolving blockchain standards for financial transactions. Enhanced transparency and speed might entice more institutions to adopt similar innovations. Historical success with tokenized money market funds suggests a strong foundation for future developments.
