Definition ∞ Crypto Custody Standards are the established protocols and best practices for securely storing and managing digital assets on behalf of individuals or institutions. These standards encompass a range of security measures, operational procedures, and technological safeguards. They address risks such as theft, loss, and unauthorized access to private keys. Adherence to these guidelines is essential for asset protection.
Context ∞ News reports often highlight crypto custody standards in discussions about institutional adoption of digital assets and regulatory developments. Financial regulators frequently assess the robustness of these standards when considering approvals for cryptocurrency products like spot ETFs. The evolution of custody solutions, from cold storage to multi-party computation, is a recurring theme, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance asset security.