CMC Markets Eyes Tokenised Assets via StrikeX Deal

CMC Markets, a prominent London-based retail brokerage, is signalling its entry into the fast-growing world of tokenised assets. In a strategic shift, the firm teased plans to offer tokenised investment products under its capital markets division, CMC CapX, with backing from StrikeX Technologies. The move follows a rising trend among brokerages and financial technology platforms exploring blockchain-powered asset solutions.

Tokenisation, the process of converting real-world assets like stocks, commodities, or real estate into blockchain-based digital tokens, is gaining traction globally. This week’s update from CMC Markets adds momentum to the trend, especially following similar moves by firms such as Robinhood and various cryptocurrency exchanges, which are launching tokenised stock offerings for retail investors. These developments reflect a broader market appetite for decentralised finance tools that increase accessibility and transparency while lowering trading costs.

Although details remain limited, CMC Markets’ collaboration with StrikeX Technologies, a company focused on blockchain infrastructure and asset digitisation, suggests the firm is positioning itself to compete in a space traditionally dominated by crypto-native platforms. The use of blockchain could allow for fractional ownership of high-value assets, real-time settlement, and broader retail investor participation, particularly appealing in an economic climate marked by inflationary pressure and rising scepticism toward centralised financial institutions.

CMC Markets’ potential entrance into tokenised trading also arrives as the United Kingdom’s financial regulation continues evolving under the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). While the Labour government has expressed general support for innovation in financial services, critics have noted its slow pace in adapting regulatory frameworks to fit emerging technologies, raising concerns that the U.K. may fall behind more proactive jurisdictions like Switzerland or Singapore.

Elsewhere in the financial services sector, Markets.com has appointed Andreas Kyriacou as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), replacing Stavros Ch. Anastasiou. Kyriacou brings accounting and compliance experience from his previous roles at FXGlobe and IronFX. His appointment signals a continuation of leadership reshuffles within the online brokerage space.

Meanwhile, Alpari appears to have separated from Exinity Group, the investment firm led by Andrey Dashin. Regulatory filings show Alpari’s trademark and web domain were transferred to Parlance Trading Ltd., suggesting a corporate restructuring aimed at streamlining operations or distancing from Exinity’s broader strategy.

Additional industry moves include Axi’s launch of AxiPrime, an institutional liquidity service offering access to multiple asset classes through a unified platform. The Australian broker has partnered with fintech firm Your Bourse to enhance distribution. In contrast, Polish broker XTB is under scrutiny after a client reported losing $38,000 in a suspected hack, prompting the firm to tighten its digital security protocols.

As digital transformation accelerates across finance, CMC Markets’ tokenisation play could mark a significant step toward modernising asset trading, offering competition, optionality, and potentially lower fees for retail investors seeking alternatives in an increasingly regulated market.