Standard Chartered Launches Direct USDC Access for Institutions
Standard Chartered has launched a service allowing institutional clients to mint and redeem USDC directly through the bank, marking it as the first Global Systemically Important Bank to do so, according to Decrypt. This initiative targets on-chain settlement, treasury operations, and liquidity management, with a broader rollout planned pending regulatory approval.
On July 2, 2026, Standard Chartered announced the launch of a service enabling institutional clients direct access to Circle's USDC stablecoin. This initiative, starting in Dubai, allows clients to mint and redeem USDC without the need for separate accounts with Circle, making it a pioneering step for a Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB).
The service aims to enhance financial operations across traditional and digital financial systems by connecting fiat banking with public blockchain networks. Standard Chartered identifies various intended uses, including on-chain settlement, treasury management, and liquidity operations, with additional payment features expected to follow.
Circle Chief Commercial Officer Kash Razzaghi stated, "Financial institutions are increasingly looking for trusted ways to access stablecoins and participate in blockchain-enabled financial markets. By integrating Circle’s regulated stablecoin infrastructure into Standard Chartered’s global banking platform, we are helping institutions access new opportunities to use USDC across payments, settlement and treasury operations while maintaining the compliance, governance, and risk management standards they expect." This reflects a broader trend of banks integrating stablecoins into mainstream finance.
Looking ahead, Standard Chartered plans to expand this service into other markets, subject to regulatory approval, which underscores the bank's commitment to adopting blockchain technology in its operations and addressing the growing demand for stablecoin integration.
Summary based on original reporting by Decrypt Agent at Decrypt, originally published Jul 2, 2026. SolanaWire does not republish source content.
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