Citi crypto custody service is scheduled for launch in 2026 after nearly three years of development. The service will provide institutional-grade custody of native cryptocurrencies, combining Citi’s regulated custody expertise with bespoke in-house and partner-built technology to meet asset managers’ security and compliance needs.
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Launch timeline and scope: Citi aims to launch its crypto custody service in 2026, holding native cryptocurrencies for institutional clients.
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Custody model options include fully in‑house systems and lightweight third‑party integrations tailored by asset type.
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Regulatory tailwinds such as the GENIUS Act and stablecoin exploration increase institutional adoption; Citi is already testing stablecoin use cases.
Citi crypto custody service set for 2026 launch; read how Citi will custody native cryptocurrencies for institutions and what it means for asset managers. Read more.
Published: October 13, 2025 | Updated: October 13, 2025 | By COINOTAG
What is Citi crypto custody service?
Citi crypto custody service is a planned institutional custody platform that will hold native cryptocurrencies on behalf of asset managers and institutional clients. The bank intends to combine its existing regulated custody infrastructure with new blockchain-native controls to deliver a secure, compliant solution when the service launches in 2026.
How will Citi store native cryptocurrencies and manage custody risk?
Citi plans to hold native tokens directly rather than relying solely on external exchanges or third‑party custodians. Biswarup Chatterjee, Citi’s global head of partnerships and innovation, said the bank is developing multiple approaches: some solutions will be built entirely in‑house, while others may use lightweight third‑party tools adapted to specific assets and client segments. The strategy reflects an emphasis on layered security, regulatory compliance, and operational continuity. Security measures under consideration include multi‑party computation (MPC), hardware security modules (HSMs), institutional key management, and rigorous operational controls aligned with Citi’s decades of custody experience. (Reporting based on plain text: CNBC.)
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Citi’s crypto custody service be available to institutional clients?
Citi plans to launch the crypto custody service in 2026 after nearly three years of internal development and testing. The bank has said it expects to roll out a credible custody solution for asset managers and institutional clients within the stated timeline.
Will Citi support stablecoins and cross‑border token transfers?
Citi is exploring stablecoin use cases and has existing blockchain infrastructure—Citi Token Services—for faster cross‑border liquidity. The bank views stablecoins as useful where traditional payment rails are limited and is conducting early‑stage experiments to assess compliance and commercial viability.
Key Takeaways
- Launch timeline: Citi aims for a 2026 release after multi‑year development, signalling a measured institutional approach.
- Custody approach: The bank will custody native cryptocurrencies, evaluating in‑house builds and selective third‑party partnerships to match asset and client needs.
- Regulation and use cases: Regulatory clarity (including the GENIUS Act) and stablecoin exploration underpin Citi’s move; asset managers should assess custody, compliance, and operational models.
Conclusion
The planned Citi crypto custody service represents a significant step by a major global bank into institutional crypto custody. By holding native cryptocurrencies and testing both in‑house and partner solutions, Citi seeks to combine regulated custody practices with blockchain‑native technology. As regulatory frameworks evolve and stablecoin experiments continue, asset managers should monitor implementation milestones and operational details ahead of the 2026 launch. For ongoing coverage and analysis by COINOTAG, follow updates on platform developments and regulatory guidance.
Sources referenced in reporting (plain text): CNBC; statements from Biswarup Chatterjee, Jamie Dimon, Brian Moynihan, and Scott Lucas; public information on the GENIUS Act and Citi Token Services. Author/Organization: COINOTAG. Publication and update dates appear above.
