Standard Chartered Launches Institutional Bitcoin and Ether Spot Trading in the UAE

Standard Chartered said on September 3 that it has expanded institutional Bitcoin (BTC/USD) and Ether (ETH/USD) spot trading in the United Arab Emirates through Standard Chartered DIFC. The bank’s announcement describes the move as the first by a Global Systemically Important Bank, giving eligible institutional clients access to deliverable Bitcoin and Ether trading.

Execution Joins an Existing Custody Business

The new capability adds execution to the bank’s digital asset custody solution, which it launched in September 2024. It is integrated into Standard Chartered’s existing platforms so that eligible institutional clients can trade crypto-assets through the same electronic interfaces they use for foreign exchange, and settle trades with a custodian of their choice or the bank’s own solution.

The bank framed the rollout as the only current global bank offering institutional digital asset spot trading in the region, positioning Dubai as a hub for the offering rather than a standalone venue.

A Regulated Gateway Through DIFC

Standard Chartered DIFC is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, and the bank said the launch supports the UAE’s ambitions as a centre for financial innovation. Rola Abu Manneh, the bank’s chief executive for the UAE, Middle East and Pakistan, said the UAE’s digital assets framework supports institutional participation, while Standard Chartered DIFC senior executive Christopher Parsons highlighted the centre’s role in deploying global capabilities.

Both executives framed the step as combining execution with custody, governance and the connectivity of a global bank, rather than announcing a retail-facing product. The bank did not provide a launch date for any further expansion of the service.

Building on a UK Precedent

The UAE launch extends a capability Standard Chartered first introduced through its UK branch in July 2025, when it became the first G-SIB to offer deliverable spot crypto-asset trading to institutions. The regional rollout follows other institutional milestones, including a first spot Bitcoin trade completed through 24X National Exchange.

The move is part of a broader digital assets strategy spanning custody, trading and tokenisation, alongside ventures Zodia Markets and Libeara. Standard Chartered did not disclose which specific institutional clients have committed to the new UAE capability, and said the offering remains limited to eligible institutional clients rather than retail investors.