Deutsche Bank to launch institutional digital asset custody within weeks

Deutsche Bank is preparing to launch a digital asset custody service for Bitcoin and Ether within weeks, according to Bitcoin News, Bitcoin Magazine, and UToday Crypto News. Gerald Podobnik, co-head of the corporate banking division at Deutsche Bank, announced the upcoming service at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Bangkok, UToday Crypto News reported. [2][3][4]

The German multinational lender will initially roll out custody services for major cryptocurrencies, specifically Bitcoin and Ether, UToday Crypto News reported. Bitcoin Magazine and CoinGape both report that the bank plans to expand its custody platform into Asia. However, the timeline for the Asian expansion varies by report, as Bitcoin Magazine cited a Friday Reuters report stating it will occur next year, while CoinGape reported the Asian expansion is targeted for 2027. [3][4][5]

The planned service marks a significant expansion into digital assets for Germany's largest bank, UToday Crypto News reported. Bitcoin Magazine reported that other major global institutions, including BNY Mellon, State Street, Standard Chartered, and U.S. Bank, are also launching or planning digital asset custody services. [3][4]

Separately, financial professionals including certified public accountants, wealth advisors, attorneys, and lenders will gather for the second annual Bitcoin for Financial Services Summit in Denver, Bitcoin Magazine Markets reported. The conference, running from October 20 to October 22, 2026, features over 30 sessions focused on Bitcoin custody, credit, and advisory practices. [1]