21X, a Germany-based digital asset exchange operator, and Zühlke, a Schlieren-based technology and innovation consultancy, have announced a strategic partnership to support the adoption of tokenised securities trading among institutional clients.
The partnership combines 21X’s DLT-based trading infrastructure with Zühlke’s technical expertise in financial services and digital assets.
Zühlke will act as an official implementation partner, providing consulting and integration services to support client onboarding and system optimisation for institutions such as banks, brokers, custodians, and stablecoin providers.
The collaboration aims to connect clients and partners from both firms’ networks, including asset managers, issuers, market makers, and stablecoin issuers.
Zühlke will also assist 21X clients with IT architecture, order management, and accounting systems to support operational efficiency in on-chain trading.
Additionally, Zühlke’s existing clients will be able to list DLT financial instruments on the 21X platform.
To help institutions assess the potential of on-chain trading, the two companies will develop proof-of-concept programmes demonstrating specific use cases.
Max Heinzle, CEO of 21X, said:
“Recognising the rapid onboarding demands of our institutional partners, we have strategically aligned with Zühlke to support the swift expansion of our market infrastructure ecosystem. Their deep understanding of blockchain technology, combined with their established expertise in the financial sector, provides us with the confidence that they will meet these demands effectively.”
Stefan Grasmann, Chief of Blockchain at Zühlke, commented:

“We are excited to partner with 21X and contribute to the growth of the tokenised securities market. But this is more than a collaboration; it’s a catalyst, allowing companies to effectively bridge the chasm between traditional finance and the dynamic digital asset ecosystem.”
The partnership will initially focus on institutions within the European financial sector, with plans to expand internationally based on market demand.
Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland based on image by freepik