Highlights:
- Singapore’s DBS has announced plans to introduce structured notes, Bitcoin, and Ethereum options trading for users.
- The banking firm’s latest decision aims to drive crypto adoption by providing unique and exciting trading experiences.
- DBS’s proposed plans imply that it has joined other top banking firms like Switzerland’s Zurich Cantonal Bank and Italy’s Banca Sella in adopting crypto trading options.
Singapore’s largest bank, the Development Bank of Singapore Limited (DBS), has achieved giant strides, with its latest announcement revealing its intention to venture into crypto trading options. The banking firm’s decision appeared in a press release on the DBS official website.
The released document informed the general public that it intends to launch over-the-counter cryptocurrency trading options and structured notes. In addition, the services will be readily available for certified institutional investors and accredited wealth customers.
The press release read:
“It is the first Asian-headquartered bank to offer financial products whose value is linked to the price of Bitcoin and Ethereum – the two largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.”
JUST IN: 🇭🇰 Singapore's largest bank, DBS to launch #Bitcoin and crypto options trading. pic.twitter.com/lnres4MdMw
— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) September 17, 2024
Options Trading and Structured Notes – What Do They Entail?
For context, crypto options contracts aim to protect users from the volatility risks associated with the central asset involved. Additionally, it allows investors to decide when to buy and sell digital assets at fixed prices. In DBS’s case, the two assets of interest are Bitcoin and Ethereum. Consequently, contract values will emerge from their market valuations.
On its part, structured notes are debt securities issued from banks to their clients. Like crypto options contracts, the central assets costs are crucial in determining potential returns with structured notes. Meanwhile, per the announcement, clients can access several features to circumvent the market volatility that could impact the crypto assets’ valuations.
Interestingly, the press release hinted that with “Put Option,” DBS users can seamlessly trade Bitcoin or Ethereum at predetermined prices and dates. The trading options will remain valid once fixed, irrespective of any significant price changes.
DBS’s Top Executive Speaks on the Latest Development
Jacky Tai, the head of trading and structuring at DBS, waded into the discussion involving the banking firm and its latest achievement. According to him, DBS’s decision is a welcomed development with massive potential to drive crypto adoption.
In his exact wording, part of Tai’s statement read:
“Professional investors are increasingly allocating to digital assets in their portfolios. Underpinned by DBS’ strong credit ratings and longstanding expertise in structuring solutions, these financial products communicate the bank’s value proposition to provide clients trusted institutional-grade access to the digital asset ecosystem.”
DBS Crypto Adventure
DBS has been creating waves in the crypto space with commendable achievements, even before its most recent feat. In 2022, the Singapore-based bank incorporated crypto trading into Digibank, the banking firm’s mobile app. Notedly, the integration allows certified individuals to trade cryptocurrencies directly from DBS Digital Exchange (DDEX). DDEX serves as DBS’s native exchange. Hence, it enables crypto transactions involving Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Bitcoin Cash, etc.
Globally, other top banking firms have been showing interest in crypto transactions. For context, Switzerland’s Zurich Cantonal Bank recently announced that it has embraced Bitcoin and Ethereum trading options via its ZKB mobile banking app. In addition, Italy’s Banca Sella relayed a similar announcement involving Bitcoin trading options for users. Hence, it underscores the earlier assertion, painting a growing interest in crypto assets among banking firms.
News of the day :
-🇸🇬 Singapore’s largest bank, DBS, is set to launch OTC options trading on Bitcoin and Ethereum for institutional clients.
-🇨🇭 ZKB, Switzerland’s fourth-largest bank, is offering cryptocurrency trading and custody.
-💲 Sui Network to integrate native USDC… pic.twitter.com/JaCWyq3CYW
— Flowate (@flocryptow) September 17, 2024