The London Stock Exchange (LSE) is partnering with Payward, the parent company of crypto exchange Kraken, to explore tokenising shares of UK companies, according to reports. The effort focuses on using the xStocks protocol to create tokenised representations of securities.
The plans envisage an initial rollout of tokenised versions of shares in the 100 largest London-listed companies within the coming weeks, though timelines depend on regulatory approval. Both outlets frame the move as part of a broader trend in which traditional finance institutions experiment with tokenised equities and seek different ways to provide market exposure.
The reports also differ slightly in emphasis. One notes that the LSE is seeking “24/5” exposure through its venues, reflecting interest in expanding trading beyond standard market hours. Another highlights potential next steps, including the possibility of listing and trading these tokenised securities on the LSE’s 24 venue, subject to regulators.
