Standard Chartered has launched direct spot trading services for Bitcoin and Ether, targeting its institutional clientele. This significant move, initiated on July 15, 2025, through the bank's UK branch, establishes Standard Chartered as a pioneer among global systemically important banks in offering integrated crypto trading capabilities.
The new service allows institutional clients, including corporations, asset managers, and professional investors, to trade Bitcoin and Ether against the US dollar. These transactions are facilitated through familiar foreign exchange interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with existing banking operations. Clients have the flexibility to settle their trades with their preferred custodians, which includes Standard Chartered's own in-house custody solutions.
Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered, stated, "Digital assets are a foundational element of the evolution in financial services. They're integral to enabling new pathways for innovation, greater inclusion and growth across the industry." He further highlighted the bank's commitment to providing clients with a secure and efficient route to manage digital asset risks within regulatory frameworks.
This strategic initiative by Standard Chartered reflects a broader trend of increasing institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies. This trend is fueled by factors such as the approval of cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and a growing perception of digital assets as a hedge against macroeconomic uncertainties. Data from early 2025 indicates a substantial portion of institutional investors have already invested in digital assets, with many planning further allocations.
Standard Chartered's expansion into digital asset trading builds upon its prior involvement in the crypto space, including backing ventures like Zodia Custody and Zodia Markets, which offer crypto infrastructure services tailored for institutional clients. This latest development signifies a deepening commitment to integrating digital assets into traditional finance, potentially setting a precedent for other major financial institutions.