Standard Chartered has set a new industry benchmark by becoming the first global systemically important bank (G-SIB) to offer deliverable spot trading in Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) through its UK branch, specifically for institutional clients. This service marks a pivotal moment in the convergence of traditional finance and digital assets.

Through integration with its existing foreign exchange (FX) platforms, the bank now provides a seamless way for asset managers, corporates, and institutional investors to access crypto markets. Settlement options allow clients to receive actual crypto not derivatives and choose from custodians including Standard Chartered’s proprietary solution. The offering is available during Asia and Europe trading hours, with the move to 24/5 access expected as client demand grows.

According to Bill Winters, Group CEO, digital assets have become a “foundational element” in financial services innovation and inclusion. Tony Hall, Global Head of Trading and XVA, emphasized that the bank’s well-established risk management frameworks and global expertise support secure, compliant digital asset services. The bank’s strategy further includes crypto custody, tokenization, and the advent of non-deliverable forwards (NDFs) for BTC and ETH.

Standard Chartered’s expansion into deliverable crypto trading comes amid a broader wave of institutional acceptance. While some competitors have limited their crypto offerings to derivatives or had yet to launch full spot services, Standard Chartered stands out for delivering turnkey, regulated digital asset access. Recent data shows substantial institutional appetite: ETF inflows reached billions, corporate treasuries scaled up to 125,000 BTC, and major market participants continue integrating crypto into portfolios.

Building on its infrastructure including Zodia Custody, Zodia Markets, and tokenization services via Libeara Standard Chartered provides a holistic digital asset ecosystem. Its regulated entities span the UAE, Luxembourg, UK, and more, offering a secure gateway for institutional crypto engagement.

What This Means for Institutions

  • Mainstream Access: Institutions can now trade crypto alongside traditional assets using familiar FX systems.
  • Safety & Compliance: Regulated custody options and strong risk controls mitigate common crypto risks.
  • Strategic Growth: Positioned to expand into crypto derivatives, starting with NDFs.
  • Market Leadership: Reinforces Standard Chartered’s competitiveness in bridging conventional finance and crypto.

Conclusion

Standard Chartered’s move delivers a major leap forward in bridging the divide between legacy finance and crypto markets. By offering deliverable Bitcoin and Ether trading under regulated frameworks, the bank empowers institutions to navigate digital assets safely and strategically. With further expansion planned in trading hours and derivative products, this development reshapes the landscape for institutional crypto access.