Citigroup Ventures into Crypto Custody with New Digital Asset Services, Partnering with Payoneer

August 15, 2025
Citigroup Ventures into Crypto Custody with New Digital Asset Services, Partnering with Payoneer
  • Citigroup's initiatives align with upcoming regulations like the GENIUS Act and BITCOIN Act, positioning it to serve clients navigating an evolving legal landscape.

  • The US stablecoin market exceeds $280 billion, with increasing demand for Bitcoin ETFs, exemplified by BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust holding around $100 billion as of August 2025.

  • The bank has partnered with Payoneer to integrate blockchain and token services into cross-border transactions, improving speed and efficiency for small and medium-sized enterprises.

  • Despite regulatory and market challenges, Citi's reputable status may give it an advantage in attracting customers to its new digital asset services.

  • Citigroup is exploring new digital asset services, including custody and payment solutions for stablecoins, as well as protecting assets for cryptocurrency ETFs, marking a significant step into institutional crypto custody.

  • This move is driven by clearer regulations and rising demand from corporate clients, prompting Citigroup to develop secure, compliant digital asset management solutions.

  • This move could enhance liquidity, security, and efficiency in digital asset transactions, potentially transforming market dynamics and encouraging broader institutional adoption.

  • This development reflects a broader trend of traditional financial institutions increasing their participation in crypto markets in 2025, aiming to bridge legacy finance with digital assets.

  • Citigroup’s cautious approach emphasizes security and regulatory compliance, including adherence to anti-money laundering and foreign currency regulations, despite technological ambitions.

  • The bank’s platform, Citi Token Services (CTS), offers scalable, compliant solutions for tokenized assets, aligning with proposed regulations like the GENIUS Act.

  • Industry analysts see this as a potential turning point for institutional blockchain infrastructure, addressing regulatory and operational concerns.

  • Citigroup already operates blockchain-based USD token transfers among major financial hubs and is considering issuing its own stablecoin to expand its infrastructure.

Summary based on 14 sources


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