Global investors rely on local sub-custodians for services that go beyond trade settlement and safekeeping of assets to include supporting clients as an adviser on local market developments and providing insight into the local regulatory environment. In our 22nd edition of the World’s Best Sub-Custodian Banks, we recognize institutions in 83 countries across the globe that continue to deliver comprehensive post-trade services.

For many of our winners, ongoing product and process innovation and technology upgrades continue to improve standardization and automation of services critical for operational efficiency and effective risk management. Leadership in their respective regions includes high levels of representation with industry associations to help shape the sector in accordance with best practices, in response to infrastructure and regulatory changes.

With the recent move to a shortened settlement cycle, from two days after the trade date (T+2) to one day (T+1), in the US, Canada, and parts of Latin America, sub-custodians have been an invaluable resource to their clients on the impact of this shift and its benefits. These include reduced counterparty risk, better market liquidity, and an overall improvement in operational efficiency. In Latin America, local sub-custodians are trusted advisers on all market developments, including the planned integration of Chilean, Colombian, and Peruvian exchanges into a regional bourse.

Most sub-custodians embrace advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, which they leverage to refine their custody infrastructure and improve service quality.

Regional, Country, And Territory Winners