Clearstream to Launch Crypto Services for Institutional Clients
Clearstream, a part of Deutsche Börse Group, is set to offer Bitcoin and Ethereum custody and settlement services to its 2,500 institutional clients from April. This move aims to integrate cryptocurrencies into conventional finance.
Based in Luxembourg, Clearstream will initially support Bitcoin (BTC) and ethereum (ETH). The company plans to expand into other crypto services, including staking, lending, and brokerage. Clients can access these services through their Clearstream Banking SA accounts.Crypto Finance, a subsidiary, will act as a sub-custodian.
Jens Hachmeister, head of issuer services at Clearstream, says the company is creating a “one-stop shop” for custody, brokerage, and settlement. Future plans may include stablecoins and tokenized securities.
Stijn vander Straeten, CEO of Crypto Finance, notes high demand from international banks. He adds that firms often spend up to €5 million to develop in-house crypto capabilities.
This initiative aligns with the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. Other financial institutions are also expanding into crypto. Such as, BBVA, Spain’s second-largest bank, plans to launch a crypto trading service. Customers will manage Bitcoin and Ethereum alongside regular banking activities using BBVA’s own custody platform.
These developments show growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in traditional finance, supported by regulatory frameworks.
