- Ripple’s custody technology will support institutional-grade digital asset management within Absa’s new platform.
- Institutional custody can address security and regulatory concerns, potentially making digital assets more accessible to large investors.
Absa Corporate and Investment Banking has announced the launch of Absa Digital Asset Custody. This institutional platform is expected to safeguard digital assets and manage private keys using Ripple’s custody technology.
This service is expected to provide regulated custody, approval controls, key management, and audit trails rather than trading services.
Ripple Middle East and Africa Managing Director Reece Merrick said the launch allows Absa to “set a new benchmark for secure, compliant, and bank-grade digital asset management on the continent.”
The platform follows a partnership announced in October 2025, when Absa selected Ripple’s technology because it “meets the highest security and operational standards.” Absa has not yet revealed which assets it will support, its fees, and its initial clients.
This launch comes as the South African regulators strengthen oversight of crypto businesses. For Ripple, the move expands its African presence alongside RLUSD adoption, reinforcing its push for institutional digital assets infrastructure across the continent.
Why Institutional Custody Could Unlock More African Crypto Investment
Institutional custody can help address security, governance, and regulatory concerns that may discourage large investors from entering digital assets. Absa’s 2025 research across five African markets found that trust is a key factor in digital asset adoption, while security concerns and regulatory uncertainty remain barriers.
Professional custody can provide established processes for protecting digital assets and managing private keys. This could make digital assets easier for institutions to incorporate into investment strategies.
In South Africa, the growing regulatory framework for crypto-asset service providers is also creating clearer requirements around compliance and custody arrangements.