Citi Launches Custody+ Platform for Crypto and Traditional Assets, Bitcoin Custody Coming Soon
August 18, 2026
Citi launches Custody+, a unified custody platform for traditional assets and crypto, delivering 24/7 tokenized deposits, real-time asset servicing, and near-instant settlements, with Bitcoin custody to follow later this year.
This move aligns Citi with a broader banking push into digital assets as peers like NYSE partner with Citi and BNY on tokenized securities, and Morgan Stanley pursues crypto custody initiatives.
Citi positions its infrastructure as a scale advantage, aiming to offer integrated digital asset services across its services, markets, and wealth units, potentially expanding beyond Bitcoin.
Bitwise reduces its minimum investment threshold dramatically, expanding participation from private funds to a broader investor base.
In-kind creations can lower certain taxes and costs for holders, though tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances and legal structures.
Investors should be aware that options trading carries significant risk, including potential loss of the entire investment, and may require enhanced disclosures for complex strategies.
Moomoo offers zero-commission trading for U.S. residents in U.S. markets, with other fees potentially applying and pricing details on its site.
Bitcoin’s price and liquidity remain sensitive to regulatory developments and institutional activity, according to market context.
Grayscale and 21Shares report substantial in-kind creation activity, with Grayscale accounting for the majority and 21Shares averaging multi-million transactions over recent months.
BlackRock’s cautious optimism is underpinned by a long-term analysis; its IBIT fund exceeds $47 billion as of March 2026, with client buying activity rebounding in late July amid a volatile market.
FATF-style AML/CFT standards for DeFi prompt a debate: some argue regulatory pressure could make DeFi safer and more decentralized by reducing privileged access and reliance on single actors.
Citi stock dipped roughly 0.8% midday, while retail sentiment on social boards remained neutral.
Summary based on 15 sources
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Sources

Yahoo! Finance • Aug 19, 2026
Is Citigroup (C) Changing Custody With Real Time Bitcoin And Traditional Assets?
Yahoo! Finance • Aug 19, 2026
Citi enters the crypto arena: What to expect from its bitcoin custody launch
Bitcoin Magazine • Aug 18, 2026
Citi To Debut Bitcoin Custody For Institutional Investors
Decrypt • Aug 18, 2026
Citi to Launch Bitcoin Custody as Wall Street Pushes Deeper Into Crypto