Anchorage Digital Launches Tokenized Deposit Infrastructure for Banks

Anchorage Digital, the federally chartered crypto bank, has introduced a new blockchain infrastructure platform designed to help banks issue tokenized deposits, marking another major step in the integration of traditional banking and blockchain technology.

The new solution enables financial institutions to offer 24/7 payment and settlement services through blockchain networks without requiring them to replace existing core banking systems. According to Anchorage Digital CEO Nathan McCauley, a growing number of banks are actively exploring tokenized deposits as part of their digital asset and blockchain strategies.

The platform creates a blockchain-based representation of customer deposits while keeping the actual funds within traditional bank accounts. Under the model, participating banks continue to manage customer relationships and maintain custody of deposits, while Anchorage Digital provides the blockchain infrastructure, wallet management capabilities, and smart contract technology needed to support on-chain transactions.

The launch comes as banks seek faster and more efficient payment solutions in a financial system that still relies heavily on business-hour operations and batch settlement processes. By leveraging blockchain technology, tokenized deposits can facilitate near-instant transfers and settlements around the clock.

The development also highlights the growing competition between stablecoins and tokenized deposits as preferred forms of digital money on blockchain networks. Stablecoins such as USDC and USDT are typically issued by private companies and backed by reserve assets like U.S. Treasuries. Tokenized deposits, however, represent commercial bank deposits and remain integrated within the traditional banking framework.

Major U.S. financial institutions, including JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Bank of America, are reportedly working toward launching a shared tokenized deposit network by the first half of 2027. Meanwhile, blockchain infrastructure provider BitGo has partnered with ZKsync to develop additional tokenized deposit solutions aimed at bringing banks on-chain.

Anchorage Digital emphasized that its platform functions as a complementary layer alongside existing banking infrastructure, eliminating the need for costly and complex system migrations. This approach allows banks to adopt blockchain-powered payment capabilities while minimizing operational risks and preserving their current technology stack.