Key Takeaways
- Clearstream, a Deutsche Börse subsidiary, will launch Bitcoin custody in April.
- The service will be regulated under the EU's MiCA framework for compliance.
- Deutsche Börse recently introduced a regulated crypto spot trading platform.
Deutsche Börse, Europe’s third-largest stock exchange, announced on March 11 that its subsidiary Clearstream will introduce institutional crypto custody services.
Initially, the service will support Bitcoin and Ethereum, with plans to expand to other digital assets.
Access & compliance
Institutional clients will gain access to Clearstream’s custody and settlement service in April, utilizing Crypto Finance, a majority-owned subsidiary, for sub-custody operations.
Crypto Finance secured a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework license, allowing the firm to operate under EU-wide regulatory standards.
MiCA framework
MiCA provides a uniform regulatory framework for digital assets across the European Union, ensuring compliance consistency.
Jens Hachmeister, who leads issuer services and new digital markets at Clearstream, highlighted the initiative as a crucial step toward providing secure and regulated institutional access to digital assets.
Institutional-grade solution
Hachmeister stated:
The institutional-grade, regulatory compliant solution offers clients easy and quick access to new asset classes while enjoying the best features of our trusted and established post-trading systems.
Broader digital asset strategy
This move is part of Deutsche Börse’s broader digital asset strategy.
In March, the exchange launched a regulated spot trading platform for cryptocurrencies, targeting institutional investors.
Leadership in digital assets
Stijn Vander Straeten, CEO of Crypto Finance Group, emphasized that these initiatives reinforce Deutsche Börse’s leadership in digital assets, offering direct crypto services integrated with traditional financial systems.
