The cryptocurrency infrastructure landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as two major players, BitGo and Copper, join forces to merge their custody and settlement networks. This strategic integration unites BitGo’s Go Network with Copper’s ClearLoop system, creating a more seamless, efficient, and globally accessible settlement infrastructure for digital assets.
This development marks a significant milestone in the evolution of institutional-grade crypto services, enhancing interoperability across major exchanges and expanding access for both retail and professional traders. The merged network will support connectivity with leading platforms including Bybit, OKX, Powertrade, Bitget, Gate.io, Deribit, BIT, Bitfinex, and Bitstamp—offering users faster and more secure cross-platform settlements.
The Power of Integrated Settlement Infrastructure
At the core of this merger is the convergence of two advanced custody solutions: BitGo’s Go Network, a cold storage-based settlement system known for its security and reliability, and Copper’s ClearLoop, a real-time gross settlement (RTGS) network designed for high-speed transaction processing.
By combining these technologies, the unified network addresses one of the most persistent challenges in the crypto ecosystem: fragmented liquidity and slow settlement times between exchanges. Previously, moving assets across platforms could take hours or even days due to manual reconciliation and disparate custody protocols. Now, with automated, near-instant settlement capabilities, users can execute trades and rebalance portfolios across multiple venues with unprecedented efficiency.
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Matthew Ballensweig, Head of Go Network at BitGo, emphasized that the initial rollout focuses on non-U.S. markets, where demand for cross-border digital asset movement is rapidly growing. However, plans are already underway to extend full functionality to U.S.-based users—a move that could significantly impact domestic institutional adoption.
Why This Merger Matters for the Crypto Ecosystem
The integration of BitGo and Copper’s networks goes beyond technical synergy—it represents a broader trend toward standardization and interoperability in digital asset infrastructure.
Enhanced Security and Trust
Both companies have built strong reputations in secure custody solutions. BitGo pioneered multi-signature wallet technology and has long been trusted by institutions for its cold storage protocols. Copper, meanwhile, offers insured custody with advanced API-driven workflows tailored for hedge funds and trading desks.
Together, they deliver a hybrid model that combines robust security with operational agility—critical for high-volume traders who cannot afford downtime or delays.
Broader Exchange Access
With support for nine major exchanges—including derivatives platforms like Deribit and spot markets like Bitstamp—this network expansion dramatically improves capital efficiency. Traders no longer need to maintain large balances on individual exchanges; instead, they can settle positions instantly from a centralized custody vault.
This level of integration reduces counterparty risk and minimizes exposure to exchange-specific vulnerabilities, such as insolvency or hacking incidents.
Driving Institutional Adoption
For institutional investors, fragmented infrastructure has historically been a barrier to entry. The merged network simplifies compliance, auditing, and asset movement—key concerns for asset managers, family offices, and fintech firms evaluating crypto allocations.
Moreover, the use of standardized settlement rails brings crypto closer to traditional financial systems, potentially paving the way for wider integration with banking and payment networks.
Core Keywords Driving Industry Impact
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- Cryptocurrency custody
- Settlement network
- BitGo Go Network
- Copper ClearLoop
- Crypto exchange integration
- Institutional crypto infrastructure
- Digital asset settlement
- Cross-exchange trading
These terms reflect the central themes of innovation, security, and scalability that define this merger’s significance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Go Network and ClearLoop?
A: BitGo’s Go Network uses cold storage-based settlement, prioritizing security through offline signing. Copper’s ClearLoop is a real-time gross settlement system optimized for speed and automation via APIs. The merged network leverages both strengths—secure custody and rapid execution.
Q: Which exchanges are supported after the merger?
A: The integrated network supports Bybit, OKX, Powertrade, Bitget, Gate.io, Deribit, BIT, Bitfinex, and Bitstamp. More integrations are expected as the platform scales globally.
Q: Is the merged network available to U.S. users?
A: Currently, the expanded settlement network is available to non-U.S. users. BitGo has confirmed plans to roll out services in the United States in the near future.
Q: How does this affect retail investors?
A: While primarily designed for institutions and professional traders, retail users benefit indirectly through improved exchange liquidity, faster deposit/withdrawal times, and enhanced platform stability.
Q: Are user funds safer with this integration?
A: Yes. Both BitGo and Copper offer insured custody solutions with enterprise-grade security protocols. Combining their networks does not compromise safety—it enhances it by reducing reliance on individual exchange wallets.
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Strategic Implications for the Future of Crypto Finance
This merger sets a precedent for collaboration over competition in crypto infrastructure. As regulatory scrutiny increases and market expectations rise, companies are recognizing that open standards and interoperable systems create more value than isolated platforms.
For exchanges like OKX and Deribit, deeper integration with secure settlement rails means reduced operational friction and stronger investor confidence. For custodians, it signals a shift from being passive vaults to active participants in financial plumbing.
Looking ahead, similar partnerships may emerge between wallet providers, clearinghouses, and DeFi protocols—potentially leading to a unified global settlement layer for all digital assets.
Furthermore, as central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) gain traction, interoperable custody networks will become essential for bridging traditional finance with blockchain-based ecosystems.
Final Thoughts: A Step Toward Financial Interoperability
The unification of BitGo’s Go Network and Copper’s ClearLoop is more than a corporate alliance—it’s a foundational upgrade to the crypto economy’s backbone. By enabling faster, safer, and more efficient settlements across top-tier exchanges, this integration empowers traders, strengthens institutions, and accelerates mainstream adoption.
As the industry moves toward greater standardization, initiatives like this demonstrate that progress isn’t just about building bigger blockchains—it’s about creating smarter connections between them.
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With global expansion on the horizon and continuous technological refinement underway, the merged custody settlement network stands as a blueprint for the future of secure, scalable digital asset infrastructure.