Chainlink Integrates with Swift's Blockchain Ledger for Cross-Border Payments

Chainlink is developing infrastructure to connect banks' existing systems directly to Swift's blockchain-based ledger. This integration will enable round-the-clock tokenized payments without requiring banks to surrender control of transaction keys or replace their settlement arrangements.

The project, which supports 24/7 tokenized payments, uses the Chainlink Runtime Environment (CRE) to coordinate workflows between banks' own tokenized-deposit ledgers and Swift's shared ledger. Banks retain control of transaction signing keys and can keep existing approval and security processes in place.

Swift's blockchain-based shared ledger was first announced at Sibos 2025, developed with input from over 40 financial institutions. The infrastructure moved from concept to activation within nine months, and 17 early participants are now using the ledger in pilots involving tokenized deposits across different payment scenarios.

The integration addresses one practical obstacle to broader institutional use of tokenized deposits: connecting blockchain infrastructure with banks' existing authorization, security, and operational systems. However, its significance will ultimately depend on adoption beyond the initial pilots.