German stock exchange Deutsche Börse to launch crypto custody with new Clearstream service
Clearstream, a subsidiary of Deutsche Börse, is set to launch crypto custody services for institutional clients. Deutsche Börse is Europe’s third-largest stock exchange.
The company announced this development on March 11, marking a significant step in its expansion into digital assets.
According to the statement, the service will initially support Bitcoin and Ethereum, with plans to incorporate additional cryptocurrencies over time.
Institutional clients will gain access to the custody and settlement service starting in April. Clearstream will rely on its majority-owned subsidiary, Crypto Finance, to handle sub-custody for digital assets.
Clearstream credited Crypto Finance with laying the foundation for this expansion by securing a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework license. This approval enables the firm to operate across Europe while reinforcing its regulatory standing.
MiCA establishes a standardized regulatory structure for digital assets across the European Union, aiming to eliminate inconsistencies in compliance.
Jens Hachmeister, who leads issuer services and new digital markets at Clearstream, emphasized that this initiative strengthens the company’s role as a comprehensive provider of crypto custody, brokerage, and settlement solutions.
He added:
“The institutional-grade, regulatory compliant solution offers clients easy and quick access to new asset classes while enjoying the best features of our trusted and established post-trading systems.”
He also reportedly hinted that the company is preparing for future stablecoins and tokenized securities developments.
Meanwhile, this move aligns with Deutsche Börse’s broader moves within the digital asset sector. In March, the German stock exchange introduced a regulated spot trading platform for crypto, targeting institutional investors.
Stijn Vander Straeten, CEO of Crypto Finance Group, noted that these initiatives strengthen Deutsche Börse Group’s leadership in digital assets.
Vander Straeten pointed out that the company now offers direct crypto services and integration with traditional financial systems, providing a seamless entry point for institutions exploring the crypto market.
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