SBI Holdings unveils Layer 1 proof of concept for tokenized stocks co-developed with Startale Group

Core Insights - SBI Holdings is collaborating with Startale Group to develop a new Layer 1 blockchain network named Strium, aimed at supporting real-world assets, particularly tokenized securities [2][4] - The initiative is part of a broader trend towards onchain equities, with various firms, including Kraken and Robinhood, enhancing their onchain stock capabilities [3] - Strium is designed to facilitate global capital markets through a blockchain-native exchange architecture, promoting faster market formation and deeper liquidity [4] Company Developments - SBI and Startale's partnership was initially announced in August 2025, focusing on a round-the-clock trading platform for real-world assets, enabling access to equities from multiple countries with quick cross-border settlement [5] - Startale has recently secured an additional $13 million from Sony to enhance its Ethereum Layer 2 project, Soneium, which is co-developed with Sony Block Solutions Labs [6] Market Positioning - Strium Network is positioned as the foundational exchange layer for Asia's onchain securities markets, leveraging SBI Holdings' extensive customer base of 80 million and its expertise in financial services [7] - The platform aims to empower institutional and professional participants to trade and unlock assets in innovative ways, overcoming limitations of traditional market structures [7]