Standard Chartered has signed a deal to take full ownership of Zodia Custody, bringing another piece of crypto's infrastructure closer to a major bank.

The October 21 announcement moves the transaction from an accepted non-binding offer to definitive agreements. Standard Chartered I H Limited would acquire 100% of Zodia Custody Limited. Regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions still stand between signing and completion. The distinction matters: this is a binding deal announcement, not confirmation that the custody operations have already moved.

Standard Chartered is technically British, it's roots going back to 1853 United Kingdom, when starting a bank required direct approval from Queen Victoria herself.  Since then they've grown into a multinational finance company covering eve...