Crypto exchange Binance is working on a project to launch a decentralized bank bridging the crypto industry with conventional banking. The financial institution will be based in Malta and fundraising will be conducted under German law. Authorities in Valletta have welcomed the initiative that is expected to win support from other crypto investors as well.
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Decentralized, Community-Owned Bank
Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trade volume, is exploring opportunities to launch a bank. The project, expecting support from other crypto investors, is centered on the idea to create a decentralized, community-owned financial institution, according to the trading platform.
The future Founders Bank will be based in Malta, the island nation that has established itself as a crypto-friendly destination. Binance told Bloomberg it has taken a 5 percent stake at a 133 million-euro ($155 million) pre-money valuation, alongside other anchor investors.
In essence, the new bank represents an effort to bridge the crypto industry with conventional banking. To do that, Binance and its partners need to obtain the necessary permits in Malta, where authorities have already welcomed the initiative. Moreover, the bank’s board will include the government’s blockchain advisor Abdalla Kablan, Malta Daily reported. According to the outlet, the board will be chaired by entrepreneur Michael Bianchi.
“We are honored to be chosen as the location of the first global community-owned bank,” said Silvio Schembri, junior minister for financial services, digital economy and innovation within the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta. He was quoted in a statement released by Binance on Thursday. To operate in the EU, the bank will have to acquire a license from Maltese regulators and an
