Deutsche Boerse Expands into Crypto with Custody and Settlement
Deutsche Boerse’s trading division, Clearstream, is set to roll out cryptocurrency custody and settlement services in 2025, aimed at institutional clients. This move comes in response to the growing demand for regulated digital asset infrastructure.
Clearstream plans to offer custody services for major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH), to its extensive network of over 2,500 institutional clients. According to a Bloomberg report on March 11, 2025, the services are expected to commence in April.
Clearstream’s crypto custody services will be provided through Crypto Finance AG, a Switzerland-based subsidiary, in which Deutsche Boerse holds a majority stake since 2021.
Aiming for Broader Crypto Services
In addition to Bitcoin and Ether custody, Clearstream intends to expand its offerings to include services like staking, lending, and brokerage. “With this offering, we are creating a one-stop shop around custody, brokerage, and settlement,” said Jens Hachmeister, head of issuer services and new digital markets at Clearstream, to Bloomberg.
This development is aligned with the European crypto landscape’s shift toward more regulated services. The implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) in December 2024 is pushing institutions to adopt regulated services in the region. MiCA aims to create a more structured environment for crypto assets but raises concerns about overregulation.
While MiCA has been seen as a positive step toward a mature crypto market, some experts express concerns over its impact on retail investors and smaller crypto firms. Dmitrij Radin, founder of Zekret, warns that MiCA might force retail users to provide extensive personal data, leading to more scrutiny and taxation. Moreover, smaller crypto firms could face difficulties under these regulations, prompting a potential shift to less-regulated regions like the Middle East.
As European regulation evolves, stakeholders in the crypto industry will closely monitor these developments, as they may influence the market’s future direction.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Cryptocurrencies and stocks, particularly in micro-cap companies, are subject to significant volatility and risk. Please conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.
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