German Banks Reveal Success in Blockchain Settlement Trial

Deutsche Boerse AG and Commerzbank said on Wednesday they collaborated to test the use of Blockchain Blockchain Blockchain comprises a digital network of blocks with a comprehensive ledger of transactions made in a cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or other altcoins.One of the signature features of blockchain is that it is maintained across more than one computer. The ledger can be public or private (permissioned). In this sense, blockchain is immune to the manipulation of data, making it not only open but verifiable. Because a blockchain is stored across a network of computers, it is very difficult to tamp Blockchain comprises a digital network of blocks with a comprehensive ledger of transactions made in a cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or other altcoins.One of the signature features of blockchain is that it is maintained across more than one computer. The ledger can be public or private (permissioned). In this sense, blockchain is immune to the manipulation of data, making it not only open but verifiable. Because a blockchain is stored across a network of computers, it is very difficult to tamp Read this Term technology for automating the securities settlement process.

The German banks said their prototype transaction included executing a legally binding settlement of a repo trade using a distributed ledger, the same technology that underpins Cryptocurrencies Cryptocurrencies By using cryptography, virtual currencies, known as cryptocurrencies, are nearly counterfeit-proof digital currencies that are built on blockchain technology. Comprised of decentralized networks, blockchain technology is not overseen by a central authority.Therefore, cryptocurrencies function in a decentralized nature which theoretically makes them immune to government interference. The term, cryptocurrency derives from the origin of the encryption techniques that are employed to secure the netw By using cryptography, virtual currencies, known as cryptocurrencies, are nearly counterfeit-proof digital currencies that are built on blockchain technology. Comprised of decentralized networks, blockchain technology is not overseen by a central authority.Therefore, cryptocurrencies function in a decentralized nature which theoretically makes them immune to government interference. The term, cryptocurrency derives from the origin of the encryption techniques that are employed to secure the netw Read this Term like Bitcoin.

After testing a blockchain-based network prototype to examine the interactions between the systems, the two said they have concluded that distributed ledgers can be used for a payment and securities settlement system as part of a joint proof of concept.

Blockchain technology provides a better settlement process based on a ‘delivery versus payment’ principle. The previous prototypes showed that tapping into this technology would not only reduce the cost of securities transactions but also support financial system resiliency, especially in periods of stress, through faster settlement times and reduced settlement risk. Other benefits, according to the lenders’ joint statement, also include the immediate and simultaneous transfer of assets, settling transactions in real time, as well as reducing counterparty risks and the capital costs.

Part of a broader trend

Last month, the operator of the Swiss Stock Exchange, SIX Group, said it would launch its new blockchain-powered exchange, dubbed SIX Digital Exchange (SDX), in the second half of 2019.

Although SIX will be the first leading marketplace to offer such a regulated environment for digital assets, many exchanges are also working on similar projects. Last year, German stock exchange operator Deutsche Boerse has set up a unit focused on blockchain and crypto assets to explore the technology for various use cases.

Commenting on this, Michael F. Spitz, CEO of the R&D unit at Commerzbank Group, said: “In past pilots we have focused on new issue projects; with the transaction between Deutsche Boerse and Commerzbank we were now for the first time able to convert existing securities into digital tokens. We are delighted to support the transaction as a platform operator and, together with Deutsche Boerse, to have reached such an important milestone in the adaptation of this future technology for the capital market.”

“The development of different blockchain applications and setting new standards is a high priority for Deutsche Boerse Group, and we will push ahead with this process in close exchange with partners, supervisory authorities and central banks,” added Jens Hachmeister, Head of DLT, Crypto Assets and New Market Structures at Deutsche Boerse.