Standard Chartered Launches Spot Crypto Trading for BTC & ETH
Standard Chartered has launched spot crypto trading for Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) through its UK branch. The new service gives institutional investors direct access to digital assets. It operates under UK regulation and integrates seamlessly with the bank’s FX platforms.
The spot crypto trading platform uses Zodia Custody to settle trades via in-house or third-party custodians. Initial trading covers Asian and European hours. The bank is evaluating a shift to 24/5 trading access.
Group CEO Bill Winters noted strong client demand for a secure, compliant way to manage digital assets risk. Rene Michau, Global Head of Digital Assets, said the bank plans to add non-deliverable forwards as it scales its infrastructure.
This launch underscores Standard Chartered’s leadership in regulated spot crypto trading. It is set to improve liquidity, boost trading efficiency and drive institutional adoption of digital assets.
Bullish
Standard Chartered’s launch of institutional spot crypto trading is bullish for BTC and ETH. It provides a secure, regulated on-ramp that could attract substantial institutional flows. In the short term, the announcement may trigger increased buy-side interest, lifting liquidity and narrowing spreads. Over the long term, bank-backed custody and products like non-deliverable forwards signal deeper market infrastructure development. This sustained institutional engagement can support higher price floors and reduce volatility, reinforcing a positive outlook for Bitcoin and Ethereum.