Citigroup is set to launch institutional bitcoin custody services this year, aiming to "make bitcoin bankable" by integrating it into existing traditional asset frameworks. The bank plans to offer a unified service model for crypto, securities, and money, with bitcoin positions flowing into familiar reporting and tax workflows. Client demand for secure, integrated digital asset exposure is driving this move.
Morgan Stanley, managing approximately $8 trillion, is also advancing its digital asset strategy. The firm has filed for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana exchange-traded products and is exploring wallet technology across its wealth platform. They are rolling out spot crypto trading on E*TRADE and evaluating lending and yield opportunities.
Both institutions are building internal infrastructure to support a 24/7 digital asset market, mirroring the evolving global financial landscape and increasing client needs for round-the-clock access.