Standard Chartered Explores Crypto Prime Brokerage Plans

Key Takeaways:
  • Standard Chartered considers crypto prime brokerage amid market shifts.
  • Pursuing institutional custody services.
  • No official confirmation or executive statements recorded.

Standard Chartered Plc is reportedly exploring the establishment of a prime brokerage for cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin  BTC +0.00% and Ethereum  ETH +0.00% , as part of early-stage plans via SC Ventures.

This initiative could enhance institutional access to crypto markets, sidestepping Basel III capital requirements influencing asset management strategies.

Reports indicate that Standard Chartered Plc is in the early stages of creating a crypto prime brokerage. No official announcements have been made publicly by the bank’s leadership as of the current date.

This development involves SC Ventures, the bank’s innovation arm, focusing on custody and market access for digital assets. However, efforts are yet unconfirmed through official channels or leadership comments.

Market participants are closely watching these moves due to potential impacts on institutional Bitcoin and Ether trading. Reports suggest avoidance of Basel III’s stringent regulations on digital assets, though confirmation is absent.

While the exact financial implications are unclear, the plan aligns with prior market activities, like the launch of Zodia Custody. Institutional access could expand, benefiting from reduced regulatory constraints on crypto asset management.

Standard Chartered’s previous crypto ventures bolster its stance in digital asset expansion, yet specific details remain sparse. Market reactions are anticipative, considering historical impacts noted in similar scenarios.

Analysts speculate the move could bolster institutional crypto investments if executed, supported by past trends of regulatory adaptations. Technical challenges and market volatility remain potential obstacles for the banking giant’s strategy.

Reports indicate a significant focus on Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) as part of Standard Chartered’s strategy to navigate the regulatory landscape without incurring excessive capital requirements. (Source)

Otto Bergmanr

Otte Bergmar is a crypto journalist covering Scandinavian and European blockchain markets, with a focus on decentralisation, privacy, and the AI–crypto interface. He reports on Web3 startups, market structure, and EU policy; from licensing regimes to consumer protection and cross-border compliance. At TokenTopNews, Otte transforms policy drafts, regulatory disclosures, and on-chain data into actionable, decision-ready insights, helping readers understand how regulation influences blockchain adoption across Europe.