Institutions Flock to Full-Stack Crypto Infrastructure Providers
European and UK financial institutions are increasingly turning to full-stack digital asset infrastructure providers over piecemeal solutions, according to a recent report from Fireblocks. The company's 'The Financial Grid Europe + UK' survey found that 53% of continental European institutions had already locked in budgets for digital asset infrastructure by May 2026.
The UK is playing catch-up but moving quickly, with only 36% of institutions committing funds at the start of the year. However, an additional 59% are earmarking funds for investment during 2026.
Security and regulatory clarity are driving this preference for integrated platforms. Around 67% of continental European institutions cite secure custody and wallet governance as a top factor when choosing a provider, while UK institutions prioritize security architecture and operational resilience.
The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) is providing clarity for continental European institutions, with 99% expecting favorable regulatory outcomes. The Qivalis consortium, comprising 12 major European banks, has selected Fireblocks as their infrastructure partner for a MiCAR-compliant euro-denominated stablecoin project.
Fireblocks' position in the market is strengthened by this deal, which targets launch in the second half of 2026. However, the survey also highlights the risk of regulatory optimism, with institutions committing budgets predicated on rules that have not been finalized.