British multinational bank Standard Chartered has finalized its acquisition of digital asset custodian Zodia Custody following a previous agreement.
According to a Wednesday announcement from the London-based Zodia Custody, the transaction will merge the firm’s operations directly into Standard Chartered’s current digital asset custody framework.
This move comes as Standard Chartered broadens its cryptocurrency services internationally. Earlier this month, the bank announced intentions to roll out institutional crypto custody services in Singapore, adding to its existing footprint in Hong Kong, Luxembourg, and the UAE.
“As institutional adoption of digital assets accelerates, custody is increasingly becoming part of the global banking landscape,” stated Zodia Custody CEO Richard Clark.
Clark further noted: “Zodia Custody has built a strong business with the specialist expertise and capabilities to meet the needs of institutional clients.”
He continued, “Bringing that expertise together with Standard Chartered’s global reach and established banking platform will strengthen its digital asset custody offering and provide institutions with greater access to trusted, regulated custody services worldwide.”
Ying Ying Tan, global head of securities services and digital assets at Standard Chartered, remarked that the agreement “further deepens our digital asset custody portfolio and reinforces our position as a leading provider of digital asset services globally.”
The purchase offer from Standard Chartered was initially cleared by Zodia Custody shareholders back in May.
Zodia Custody specializes in providing bitcoin and digital asset storage solutions tailored for asset managers and institutional clients.
In recent years, Standard Chartered has expanded its footprint in the cryptocurrency sector. During 2025, the institution launched a London-based trading desk dedicated to bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, positioning itself among the earliest global banks to offer spot crypto trading.
The bank has subsequently rolled out trading and custody operations across multiple international jurisdictions.
Major financial institutions globally are rolling out or preparing digital asset custody options, with Citigroup, Standard Chartered, U.S. Bank, and State Street all launching direct crypto custody initiatives over the last 18 months.
For traditional banks entering the digital asset ecosystem, crypto custody regularly serves as the initial entry point. BNY Mellon set a precedent in 2022 by becoming the earliest major U.S. bank to launch digital asset custody operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zodia Custody?
Zodia Custody is a London-based digital asset custodian that provides bitcoin and digital asset custody services for institutional clients and asset managers.
Who is acquiring Zodia Custody?
British multinational bank Standard Chartered is acquiring Zodia Custody.
Where does Standard Chartered currently offer crypto custody?
Standard Chartered offers crypto custody services in the UAE, Luxembourg, and Hong Kong, with plans announced for Singapore.
When did Zodia Custody shareholders approve the purchase?
Zodia Custody shareholders approved Standard Chartered’s acquisition offer in May.
