- Aquanow partners with Bahrain’s SGB to enable real-time crypto-to-fiat conversions for institutional clients.
- The deal grants access to USD bank accounts and 24/7 multi-currency cross-border settlements.
- Integration capitalizes on SGB’s SWIFT network to enhance regulated banking access for digital asset markets.
Aquanow has partnered with Bahrain-regulated SGB to connect crypto with secure banking, enabling USD accounts, instant SWIFT settlements, and round-the-clock transfers in multiple currencies for institutional and enterprise clients worldwide.
Regulated Banking for Digital Assets
Aquanow, a global digital asset infrastructure provider, has signed a partnership with SGB, a fully licensed digital bank regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain. The deal is to unite and provide banking access for digital asset participants.
Through the collaboration, clients can open USD-denominated accounts with SGB. Transactions will be settled in real time through SWIFT-linked systems. Transfers can be made at all times across global currencies, including USD, AED, SAR, BHD, SGD, EUR, HKD, and CNH.
SGB, backed by Bahrain’s Mumtalakat and Singapore’s Whampoa Group, is the only MENA bank authorized to digitally onboard clients globally.
Real-Time Settlements and 24/7 Transfers
The partnership integrates Aquanow’s platform with SGB’s regulated banking network and settlement system, SGB Net. This will allow instant on/off-ramps between crypto and fiat. Exchanges, payment providers, OTC desks, neobanks, and fintechs are expected to benefit from faster liquidity and fewer operational delays.
With SGB’s SWIFT membership, cross-border payments can be executed in seconds, reducing friction for businesses transacting in multiple markets. The arrangement addresses a major need for institutional players, time, by providing reliable fiat access without time restrictions.
Market Momentum in MENA and Asia
The deal comes as institutional adoption of digital assets grows in MENA and Asia. The regions have progressive regulatory frameworks. The demand for blockchain-based finance is skyrocketing also.
Phil Sham, CEO and co-founder of Aquanow, stated that the partnership aims to remove infrastructure barriers and create a more crypto-friendly banking environment. Shawn Chan, CEO of SGB, called it a “step forward” in merging regulated banking with digital asset operations.
By combining compliance, real-time settlements, and global reach, Aquanow and SGB are building infrastructure for a borderless financial system.
