Citi to integrate Bitcoin into traditional finance via bank-grade custody

Citi is actively preparing to integrate Bitcoin into traditional finance by launching bank-grade custody services, according to Nisha Surendran, who leads the bank’s digital asset custody development. The initial launch, expected later this year, will focus on core custody, institutional-grade key management, and wallet infrastructure, with a broader target of 2026 for the full rollout. This initiative aims to "make Bitcoin bankable" by applying the same regulatory framework, risk controls, and reporting used for conventional securities. The goal is to allow institutions, who are currently hesitant due to the novelty of crypto, to manage digital holdings alongside equities and bonds in a unified account structure, reducing operational friction. Citi is exploring proprietary technology and partnerships, and is also looking into stablecoins and blockchain-based deposit tokens to modernize cross-border payments, potentially enabling cross-margining between digital and traditional assets.

(Source：Crypto Briefing)