Standard Chartered Signs Deal to Acquire Zodia Custody

Standard Chartered has signed definitive agreements to acquire Zodia Custody’s regulated operating entities, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions, according to an announcement by the bank.

The signing advances a transaction announced in May, when Zodia’s shareholders accepted the bank’s non-binding offer. The UK-based lender reportedly began considering folding Zodia’s crypto custody business into its corporate and investment banking division in April.

Acquisition Structure

As part of the deal, Standard Chartered will acquire 100% of Zodia Custody UK Limited, which serves as the parent company of Zodia’s regulated operating entities located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Luxembourg, and the United Arab Emirates. The transaction will integrate Zodia’s crypto custody business directly into Standard Chartered’s existing Securities Services operations.

Additionally, Zodia will transfer its software and professional-services assets to Zodia Solutions. This independent entity operates under SC Ventures and is designed to provide digital asset infrastructure for financial institutions.

Expansion in Crypto Services

The acquisition forms part of the lender’s broader expansion in digital asset services. In September, Standard Chartered launched spot Bitcoin and Ether trading for institutional clients in the United Arab Emirates.

Key facts

• Standard Chartered signed definitive agreements to acquire 100% of Zodia Custody UK Limited.
• The transaction follows shareholders’ acceptance of a non-binding offer in May, with regulatory approvals still pending.
• Zodia's regulated operating entities are located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Luxembourg, and the United Arab Emirates.
• Software and professional-services assets will transfer to Zodia Solutions under SC Ventures.