A New Era for Capital Markets
On September 8, 2025, Frankfurt welcomed the official launch of 21X, the world’s first regulated blockchain-based exchange for tokenized securities and stablecoins. Overseen by BaFin, Bundesbank, and ESMA, the platform allows smart contract-powered atomic settlement that finalizes trades within two seconds, a sharp contrast to traditional markets where settlement may take days. This breakthrough signals a fundamental shift in how global markets can operate.
Strong Partnerships and Ecosystem Support
21X’s launch is backed by leading players in Web3 and finance, including Chainlink, Circle, Polygon, and SBI Digital Markets. The exchange has also received support from banks and institutions such as ABN Amro, Apex Group, Stellar, and Tradevest, highlighting growing institutional demand for tokenized assets. These collaborations not only strengthen 21X’s ecosystem but also accelerate adoption of onchain finance in Europe and beyond.
Faster Settlement and Expanded Access
Unlike traditional exchanges or closed digital asset projects, 21X democratizes access to both corporate and institutional investors. The exchange supports fiat, stablecoins like USDC, and digital cash, enabling flexibility for global participants. By leveraging blockchain settlement, 21X cuts costs by up to 50 percent while removing the need for central depositories or clearing houses. The platform currently operates weekdays but is preparing for 24/7 trading to match global demand.
Positioning for Global Growth
Founder and CEO Max J. Heinzle describes 21X as the “Spotify moment” for capital markets, compressing workflows and enabling direct wallet-based access. With over 30 participant agreements already signed and more than 100 financial instruments in the pipeline, the exchange is positioned as a leader in tokenized finance. By combining compliance, speed, and transparency, 21X sets a new global benchmark for the future of securities trading.