Top Custodian Banks Globally Ranked in 2025

In a significant recognition, sub-custodian banks have been honoured for their focus on innovation and exceptional client service. This marks the 23rd edition of the World's Best Sub-Custodian Banks across seven regions and 83 countries, territories, and districts.

Sub-custodians play a pivotal role in facilitating investment in emerging and frontier markets, where infrastructure is less established. They are instrumental in attracting capital by providing robust custody systems and effective post-trade execution, enabling institutional investors to navigate operational and regulatory complexities in their respective countries.

The move to T+1 trade settlement, a significant development in many countries, presents a challenge for sub-custodians. They are focusing on workflow improvements, operational efficiencies, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance to meet these demands.

In addition to the T+1 settlement, priorities for sub-custodians include developing new services, improving automation, customizing solutions, enhancing collateral and liquidity management, and streamlining documentation requirements. Sub-custodians are also investing in technology and data analytics to refine their business models.

Local sub-custodians are recognised for their ongoing innovation, investment in technology, and data analytics. They continue to refine their business models through these efforts, providing essential services in attracting capital to these jurisdictions.

Moreover, sub-custodians serve as valuable resources for institutional investors in navigating operational and regulatory complexities in their respective countries. They are instrumental in assisting clients with navigating local regulatory environments and advocating on their behalf within evolving market infrastructures.

Extensive local knowledge, operational scale, and advanced technology are among the critical mechanisms provided by these banks for institutional investors in global capital markets. As the world continues to evolve, sub-custodians remain committed to meeting the challenges and providing the highest level of service to their clients.