Citi Plans Crypto Custody Service Launch for 2026

Citi is set to launch its highly anticipated cryptocurrency custody service in 2026, marking a significant milestone for institutional crypto adoption. The banking giant has been developing this digital asset custody solution for approximately three years, with Biswarup Chatterjee, Citi's global head of partnerships and innovation, confirming substantial progress on the project.

This strategic move positions Citi to compete directly with established crypto custody providers like Coinbase Custody and BitGo, as traditional financial institutions increasingly embrace Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets. The cryptocurrency custody service will enable institutional clients to securely store and manage their blockchain-based investments through a regulated banking environment.

Citi's entry into crypto custody reflects the growing demand from institutional investors seeking secure, compliant solutions for digital asset management. This development could accelerate mainstream cryptocurrency adoption and potentially impact Bitcoin price movements as more institutional capital enters the market. The banking sector's continued integration of DeFi and blockchain technologies signals a transformative shift toward digital finance infrastructure, with major implications for the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem and institutional investment strategies.