Core Viewpoint - Standard Chartered Group has launched a comprehensive integrated digital asset trading service for institutional clients, becoming the first global systemically important bank to provide secure, compliant, and scalable spot trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum [1][2]. Group 1: Service Launch and Market Position - The new digital asset trading service is highly integrated with Standard Chartered's existing platforms, allowing institutional clients to trade digital assets through familiar forex interfaces and settle with their chosen custodial banks [2]. - The service includes spot trading for Bitcoin (XBT/USD) and Ethereum (XET/USD) through its UK branch, with plans to introduce non-deliverable forward trading soon [2]. - The launch reflects a shift from traditional financial institutions providing "behind-the-scenes" support to actively participating in the core trading of digital assets [1][2]. Group 2: Market Trends and Institutional Influence - The launch of the digital asset trading service indicates three key trends: 1. Accelerated integration of cryptocurrencies with traditional finance, as evidenced by Standard Chartered's role as a global systemically important bank [3]. 2. Increasing influence of institutional investors in the cryptocurrency market, highlighted by the bank's focus on institutional clients [3]. 3. A growing number of banks actively entering the cryptocurrency service space, expanding their business scope since the second half of 2024 [3]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment and Future Outlook - Recent legislative developments in major countries, including the U.S. and Hong Kong, indicate a move towards regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, suggesting the end of the "wild growth" phase for the market [4]. - The future of the cryptocurrency market will depend on achieving a dynamic balance with traditional financial markets, emphasizing the complementary role of cryptocurrencies in enhancing the existing financial system [4]. - Global efforts are underway to classify and regulate digital assets, setting boundaries and norms for financial institutions to operate within [4].