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Standard Chartered Launches Crypto Trading for Wealthy UAE Clients

14.10.2026 17:46

A British bank has obtained formal approval from Dubai’s regulatory authority, granting it the right to permit wealthy clients to acquire Bitcoin and Ethereum directly from their existing bank accounts. The institution also insists that all custody and settlement operations remain under its own management, ensuring tight internal control over the assets.

This development represents a notable bridge between conventional finance and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, providing a straightforward on‑ramp for affluent investors who might otherwise prefer isolated exchange platforms. By keeping custody and settlement inside the bank’s vaults, the firm mitigates exposure to external counterparties and adheres to stricter compliance standards.

The move is likely to stimulate higher participation from high‑net‑worth individuals, as the integration of blockchain transactions within a regulated banking environment reduces friction and enhances perceived security. Such an approach aligns with broader industry shifts toward clearer regulatory frameworks, positioning the bank as a pioneering player in the emerging fintech‑crypto nexus.

Once the authorization becomes operational, customers will be able to place orders through familiar banking interfaces, after which the bank will handle the transfer and secure storage of the newly acquired BTC and ETH holdings, delivering a smoother investment journey for its premium clientele.