Standard Chartered’s Zodia Markets in Talks to Acquire Alan Howard-Backed Crypto Firm

Standard Chartered’s crypto subsidiary, Zodia Markets, is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Elwood Capital Management, a digital-asset business backed by billionaire hedge fund manager Alan Howard. The acquisition, expected to be completed this month, will provide Zodia Markets with licenses as a virtual asset service provider and investment business in Jersey. This move aligns with Zodia’s strategic shift towards offering high-speed, wholesale cross-border settlement services between fiat currencies and stablecoins, further deepening Standard Chartered’s involvement in digital assets.