Standard Chartered has launched direct Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) trading for affluent clients in the United Arab Emirates, expanding its cryptocurrency services beyond institutional investors. According to the company, the offering received approval from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and initially targets clients classified as Professional Investors. The bank described the launch as its first direct cryptocurrency trading service for wealth clients globally.
Standard Chartered Introduces Bank-Integrated Crypto Trading
Eligible customers can buy and sell BTC and ETH through existing Standard Chartered bank accounts without opening external exchange accounts. The service operates through a closed-loop model, allowing the bank to manage cryptocurrency custody, trading and settlement within its ecosystem.
Zodia Markets, backed by Standard Chartered’s SC Ventures division, supports the offering alongside its wealth and investment banking businesses.
Samir Subberwal, Global Head of Wealth Solutions, said, “With digital assets moving into mainstream wealth conversations, clients are increasingly looking not only for access, but also for the security, trust and confidence that comes from investing through a regulated and trusted institution.”
UAE Expansion Follows Institutional Crypto Rollout
The latest launch follows Standard Chartered’s institutional cryptocurrency trading expansion.
In July 2025, the bank introduced institutional Bitcoin and Ether spot trading through its UK operations.
It subsequently expanded institutional trading services to the UAE in September 2026. Standard Chartered also established digital asset custody operations in Dubai in September 2024, initially supporting BTC and ETH. According to the bank, the UAE remains one of its four global wealth management hubs.
Stablecoin Custody and Global Expansion Plans
Standard Chartered expanded its institutional custody services on October 12, introducing support for Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin through its Dubai International Financial Centre branch.
The bank is also exploring digital asset custody services in Singapore, covering cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and tokenized assets. Its broader infrastructure includes Zodia Markets, Zodia Custody and Libeara.
Final Thoughts
Standard Chartered’s UAE launch brings cryptocurrency trading directly into traditional wealth management accounts. However, access currently remains limited to eligible professional investors. The bank plans further international expansion, although additional markets, pricing details and launch dates remain undisclosed.
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Disclaimer : Crypto News India does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
