Standard Chartered Launches Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum Trading for Institutions

Standard Chartered has taken a major step in crypto by launching a fully regulated spot trading service for Bitcoin and Ethereum, specifically targeting institutional clients. This move makes it the first globally systemically important bank to offer direct access to dollar-paired crypto spot trading, opening the door for corporates, investors, and asset managers to gain exposure to digital assets under the umbrella of a trusted banking institution.

Standard Chartered’s new service

The new service is operated through Standard Chartered’s UK branch and is fully integrated with its existing platforms and FX interfaces. Clients can trade BTC and ETH with the option to settle using their preferred custodians, including Standard Chartered’s own digital custody service. The bank emphasized that this offering is backed by institutional-grade risk controls and the security of an FCA-registered global financial institution. CEO Bill Winters said:

Digital assets are a foundational element of the evolution in financial services. As client demand accelerates, we want to offer a safe, efficient route to trade and manage digital asset risk safely and efficiently within regulatory requirements.

A bigger bet on crypto

This launch builds on Standard Chartered’s growing footprint in digital assets. The bank holds stakes in Zodia Custody and Zodia Markets, which focus on secure crypto storage and OTC trading, respectively. In 2023, the firm also introduced Libeara, a blockchain unit dedicated to the tokenization of real-world assets.

Standard Chartered’s move comes at a time when other financial giants are ramping up their crypto capabilities. JPMorgan Chase is piloting its own blockchain-based settlement token, while Charles Schwab has expressed interest in launching crypto trading support within the next year.

Why now?

The announcement follows months of preparation, with Standard Chartered working closely with regulators since at least June 2024. It also coincides with growing institutional interest in Bitcoin and Ethereum amid ETF inflows and bullish price action.

Earlier this month, the bank’s Head of Digital Assets Research, Geoffrey Kendrick, predicted Bitcoin could hit $135,000 by Q3 and $200,000 by year-end, citing increased corporate adoption and policy tailwinds.

By combining trading access with custody and tokenization infrastructure, Standard Chartered is positioning itself as a full-service gateway for institutions entering crypto.