UBS explores crypto access, tokenized deposits, and asset tokenization, adopting a fast-follower strategy to expand regulated digital services globally.
UBS Group AG is exploring crypto access for individual clients, CEO Sergio Ermotti said during Wednesday’s earnings call. The $7 trillion Swiss banking giant is developing digital foundations in order to cope with the increasing demand. Meanwhile, the move is a cautious but deliberate shift towards regulated digital assets.
UBS Explores Crypto Access and Tokenized Offerings
During the call, Ermotti confirmed that UBS is looking at crypto for access to individual clients. Specifically, the bank is testing the Bitcoin and Ether services. Therefore, UBS aims at responding to increasing interest from rich private banking customers.
JUST IN: $7 trillion UBS Group CEO Sergio Ermotti said the bank is considering offering access to crypto for individual clients. pic.twitter.com/NzWgSSHUlT
— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) February 4, 2026
At the same time, UBS is working on building foundational digital capabilities across its operations. These efforts contain focused corporate offerings like tokenized deposits. Consequently, the bank is bringing retail exploration into line with institutional-grade infrastructure.
Asset tokenization is one of the prevailing trends in finance in 2026. However, UBS plans on a “fast follower” strategy rather than early experimentation. As a result, the bank aims at growth for the next three to five years in terms of.
UBS plans to supplement existing wealth and corporate services with tokenization. Therefore, digital assets will become part of existing banking infrastructures. This approach minimizes disruption and maximizes future-ready offerings.
Importantly, UBS is utilizing its in-house platform UBS Tokenize. The platform provides for regulated blockchain-based issuance and settlement. Consequently, UBS seeks to bridge the gap with other rivals such as JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley.
Unlike first movers, UBS is putting infrastructure over speculation. The point of focus is still compliance, custody and governance. Therefore, institutional readiness is followed by retail-facing crypto products.
The first roll-out could be in Switzerland. Subsequently, services may grow in Asia-Pacific and US. This phased approach reflects the diversity of regulation in different regions.
Fast-Follower Strategy Focuses on Infrastructure and Compliance
UBS’s strategy focuses on a complete life cycle of tokenized assets. Through UBS Tokenize, the bank covers origination, issuance, distribution and custody. Therefore, products can be tokenized bonds, funds, and structured instruments.
Strategic partnerships are also at the center. UBS is collaborating with the technology provided by Chainlink, known as Digital Transfer Agent. As a result, the bank is able to manage tokenized fund lifecycles completely on-chain.
Of note, UBS has held pilot transactions for tokenized money market funds called uMINT. These pilots have their operational readiness. As a result, UBS is validating infrastructure before use on a large scale.
The bank’s approach emphasizes “serious controls” according to management commentary. These controls involve strict selection of partners and institutional solutions for custody. Therefore, UBS strives to comply with high regulatory and risk management standards.
This cautious stance separates UBS from the early adopters of crypto. Instead of a rush to the market, the bank prioritises longevity. As a result, long-term credibility is given precedence over short-term market share.
Institutional interest in digital assets is still on the rise worldwide. Meanwhile, competition between major banks is increasing. JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, and Julius Baer already have digital asset platforms.
Looking into the future, UBS anticipates that tokenization will complement the traditional finance sector, not replace it. Digital assets will promote efficiency and transparency. Ultimately, UBS is positioning itself for growth on a scale in regulated financial markets.