Ripple partners with Saudi bank unit on blockchain payments, custody

Ripple’s agreement with Riyad Bank highlights growing institutional interest in blockchain for payments, custody and tokenization across global financial markets.

Ripple has partnered with the innovation arm of Riyad Bank, a major Saudi financial institution, to explore the use of blockchain technology within the country’s financial system, signaling growing interest in blockchain-based infrastructure at the institutional level.

The partnership was announced Monday by Reece Merrick, Ripple’s senior executive officer and managing director for the Middle East and Africa. Merrick said Ripple is working with Jeel, Riyad Bank’s innovation unit, as part of an agreement to study potential applications of blockchain technology.

The arrangement will take the form of a memorandum of understanding that focuses on cross-border payments, digital asset custody and asset tokenization. These efforts are intended to support Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy to modernize its economy and financial infrastructure while minimizing dependence on oil exports. 

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