- Ripple’s custody network expands into Africa with Absa adopting its infrastructure for tokenized asset storage.
- Absa plans phased rollout beyond South Africa into Kenya, Mauritius and additional regulated markets.
- Regulatory changes and institutional demand in emerging markets drive the partnership’s timing and scope.
Ripple has widened its institutional custody footprint by partnering with Absa Bank to introduce blockchain-based storage services in South Africa. The collaboration is Ripple’s first major custody arrangement on the continent and shows rising interest in tokenized assets among regulated financial institutions.
According to a company statement, Absa will adopt Ripple’s infrastructure to manage cryptocurrencies and other tokenized holdings for eligible clients. The rollout adds Africa to Ripple’s existing custody network in Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
Ripple’s African Strategy
The agreement follows growing demand for compliant digital asset storage in emerging markets. Ripple confirmed the deal alongside commentary from its regional leadership. Reece Merrick, the company’s managing director for the Middle East and Africa, said the partnership aligns with increasing activity around blockchain-based financial products.
Absa will use Ripple’s custody framework to support institutional-grade storage and meet operational and regulatory requirements. The move adds to Ripple’s earlier work with Africa-based payments provider Chipper Cash and the company’s plans to introduce its RLUSD stablecoin in the region.
Absa Targets Institutional Custody Demand
Absa, one of Africa’s largest financial institutions, already administers traditional custody services across several markets. The bank plans to extend those operations to include tokenized assets.
Robyn Lawson, who leads digital product custody at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking, said the bank views secure storage as necessary for clients exploring blockchain-based investments.
The partnership will cover South Africa first, then expand to other jurisdictions where Absa operates, such as Kenya and Mauritius. Later phases may include Uganda and Ghana, but regulatory requirements differ by country.
Regulatory Changes Drive Adoption
The arrangement comes as African markets clarify rules around alternative investments. Finance leaders across the Middle East and Africa have identified faster settlement and payment efficiencies as key drivers of blockchain adoption, according to Ripple’s 2025 New Value Report. The company holds more than 60 regulatory registrations globally and intends to apply those standards in new jurisdictions.
However, each African market maintains its own licensing framework, requiring close coordination with national authorities. Ripple’s custody services combine with Absa’s regional footprint to address those expectations and support institutional entry into digital asset custody.
