Definition ∞ Qualified custodian status refers to a financial institution’s designation as a secure and regulated entity capable of holding client assets. This status is typically granted by regulatory bodies and requires adherence to strict operational, financial, and security standards to protect client funds and securities from loss or theft. For digital assets, achieving qualified custodian status often involves demonstrating advanced cybersecurity measures, robust internal controls, and sufficient capital reserves. This designation provides a layer of trust and regulatory compliance for institutional investors.
Context ∞ Obtaining qualified custodian status is a significant hurdle for firms seeking to offer digital asset custody services to institutional clients, and it is a frequent topic in regulatory news. The debate centers on defining appropriate standards for digital asset custodianship, which differs from traditional asset custody. Future regulatory clarifications will shape the landscape for secure and compliant digital asset storage solutions.
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