Asia Pacific capital markets infrastructure shifts with integration, DLT and securities finance
Updated
Updated · Global Trading · May 6
Asia Pacific capital markets infrastructure shifts with integration, DLT and securities finance
5 articles · Updated · Global Trading · May 6
Broadridge's Wout Kalis said Hong Kong and Singapore are advancing digital-asset infrastructure, while Hong Kong's daily on-loan balances topped $60bn last year and equities lending revenue exceeded $250m.
He said firms are pursuing straight-through processing and front-to-back platforms to handle higher volumes, lower commissions and shorter settlement cycles, with DLT already improving collateral mobility, intraday repo and liquidity optimisation.
Kalis said fragmented APAC adoption could accelerate once key regional banks join, helping Hong Kong strengthen its role as a cross-border hub linking Chinese and global capital.
As DLT enables 24/7 markets, what unforeseen systemic risks will emerge to challenge regulators and investors?
With platforms processing trillions, is DLT creating new tech monopolies instead of decentralizing finance as promised?
How will tokenization fundamentally alter the legal frameworks for property ownership and investor protection globally?
APAC Capital Markets in 2024-2034: DLT, Tokenization, and the Race to $2.8 Trillion in Digital Assets
Overview
APAC capital markets are experiencing a major digital transformation, driven by the integration of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and rapid changes in securities finance. This shift is fueled by the urgent need to modernize market infrastructure, boost operational efficiency, and respond to strong competition and evolving regulations. The region is seeing important milestones in DLT adoption and remarkable growth in securities finance, supported by key regulatory developments that aim to streamline market operations. Together, these factors are reshaping the financial landscape in APAC, paving the way for more efficient and interconnected markets.