Citi Speeds Up Bitcoin Custody Launch to Meet Client Demand

Citi is expanding its digital asset infrastructure by launching Bitcoin custody later this year. The service will be part of Custody+, a suite of custody and settlement tools, allowing institutional clients to access traditional securities and crypto custody through the same framework.

The bank's Citi Token Services platform already supports 24/7 transfers of tokenized deposits in select markets, with over 80% of its asset-servicing event volume processed in real time.

Citi's plans for institutional Bitcoin custody were first revealed in October, with a launch target of 2026. However, the bank has accelerated this timeline to meet growing demand from clients.

Amit Agarwal, Head of Custody at Citi Investor Services, emphasized that Custody+ is designed to help clients simplify their operating models amid increasing complexities in the industry.