Deutsche Bank to Launch Bitcoin and Ethereum Custody Within Weeks
Deutsche Bank plans to launch cryptocurrency custody services within weeks, starting with Bitcoin and Ethereum , as Germany’s largest bank expands its digital asset business.With this launch, the bank plans to enter Asian financial hubs in 2027 and add services such as stablecoin transfers and tokenized deposits.Deutsche Bank Prepares Bitcoin, Ethereum Custody LaunchDuring the IMF and World Bank meetings in Bangkok, Gerald Podobnik, co-head of Deutsche Bank’s corporate bank, confirmed the launch.However, the initial service will allow institutional clients, including asset managers, hedge funds and companies, to hold Bitcoin and Ethereum through the bank.Deutsche Bank is working with Taurus, a Swiss digital asset technology firm, to support its custody services. The bank led a $65 million funding round for Taurus in 2023 and has since worked to integrate its technology into its digital asset plans.Deutsche Bank is reportedly preparing to launch crypto custody services in Germany within weeks, with Asia expansion planned for 2027.Bitcoin and Ethereum will be first, followed by stablecoin services.Traditional finance keeps moving deeper into crypto. The infrastructure is… The service is expected to provide institutions with a bank-backed option for holding crypto assets, rather than relying entirely on external exchanges.Bank Plans Stablecoin and Tokenization Services NextDeutsche Bank also plans to expand beyond crypto custody. Future services could include fiat-to-stablecoin conversion services and tokenized deposits. The bank also aims to help corporate clients issue blockchain-based securities, including digital bonds.These services would connect traditional banking operations with blockchain technology and give institutional clients more ways to manage digital assets.Podobnik sees digital assets as part of the corporate bank’s growth strategy, which aims for 8% growth by 2028.Deutsche Bank Eyes Asian Expansion in 2027After launching its custody service in Germany, Deutsche Bank plans to expand into Asian financial centers in 2027, with Singapore and Hong Kong among its target markets.The expansion would allow the bank to build on its existing corporate banking presence in the region. It also reflects its plans to offer more digital asset services as financial institutions explore crypto custody, stablecoins and tokenized securities.However, the timing and range of services will depend on regulatory requirements and the bank’s rollout plans.