Citi Plans to Launch Institutional Crypto Custody Platform in 2026

Citibank announced plans to launch a full cryptocurrency custody platform targeting a 2026 rollout, signaling the bank's commitment to institutional digital asset infrastructure. The platform will support stablecoins and tokenized assets, including those backing cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds.

Amit Agarwal, Citi's Head of Custody, stated the future of post-trade settlement is "instant," according to reports. The move follows regulatory shifts including the SEC's January 2025 rescission of accounting guidance SAB 121 and the GENIUS Act's July 2025 passage, which requires stablecoin issuers to maintain 100% liquid asset reserves. The initiative positions Citi alongside competitors JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley in the institutional digital asset custody space.