Custodia Bank, a cryptocurrency-friendly bank founded by Bitcoin advocate Caitlin Long, has announced the launch of its BT custody platform. The platform aims to provide Bitcoin (BTC) custody services to businesses like fiduciaries, investment advisers, fund managers, and corporate treasurers. The bank made the announcement on Nov. 7 through X (formerly Twitter), and it comes shortly after receiving approval from the Wyoming Division of Banking to go live with the service.
According to Custodia Bank, the platform is a non-lending bank built by Bitcoiners, offering segregated custody accounts on its custom-built Bitcoin custody platform. The bank also emphasized that it provides integrated Bitcoin custody and U.S. dollar services on one platform, designed to simplify user operations and reduce risks. Additionally, they expressed their gratitude to those who have provided user feedback to help improve the platform.
The approval from the Wyoming Division of Banking is a significant milestone for Custodia Bank, especially after facing regulatory challenges earlier in the year. In January 2023, the Federal Reserve Board rejected the bank’s application to become a member of the Federal Reserve System, citing inconsistencies with required factors under the law. The Fed also denied Custodia’s request to reconsider its membership application in its system.
A detailed report in March 2023 revealed that the Fed’s decision was tied to concerns about banks with a high concentration of activities related to the crypto industry, which ultimately led to Custodia Bank’s membership being denied. Despite these challenges, Custodia Bank opened for business in August 2023, although the Fed has blocked much of its proposed business model.
Established in 2020, Custodia Bank aims to bridge the gap between digital assets and the U.S. dollar payments system while serving as a digital asset custodian. The bank, previously known as Avanti Financial Group, is based in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Custodia Bank’s announcement of the BT custody platform marks a significant development in the financial and cryptocurrency industries. The platform’s launch signals a growing acceptance and integration of Bitcoin and other digital assets into traditional financial services. As the cryptocurrency market continues to expand, the availability of custodial services for businesses and institutional investors is essential for fostering greater adoption and participation in the digital asset space.
The launch of Custodia Bank’s BT custody platform is part of a broader trend in the finance industry to accommodate the needs of businesses and investors seeking exposure to cryptocurrencies. With the regulatory hurdles behind them, Custodia Bank is poised to make a meaningful impact in the digital asset custodial space, providing secure and compliant custody services for businesses looking to incorporate Bitcoin into their portfolios.
In conclusion, Custodia Bank’s foray into the world of cryptocurrency custody services represents a significant step forward in the industry’s evolution. As digital assets become more integrated into traditional financial systems, the availability of reliable and secure custodial services is crucial for fostering trust and confidence among businesses and investors. With its launch of the BT custody platform, Custodia Bank is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the ongoing convergence of traditional finance and the burgeoning cryptocurrency market, contributing to the continued growth and maturation of the industry.
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