Financial markets continue to evolve as institutions evaluate new ways to move assets, improve settlement processes, and expand investment opportunities.

What role will digital assets play in the future of investing? And how are institutions balancing innovation with regulation, governance, and risk management?

In this episode, Paul Fahey speaks with Andrew Czupek, Head of Digital Assets and Innovation, North America at Northern Trust, about the findings from Northern Trust’s 2026 Global Asset Owner Peer Study. They explore growing institutional adoption of digital assets, the rise of tokenized funds, the importance of interoperability between traditional and digital systems, and how regulatory developments are influencing participation.

Andrew also shares why utility, mobility, and infrastructure development are becoming key drivers of long-term institutional interest.

Key takeaways:

Growing institutional participation reflects increasing interest in digital assets beyond cryptocurrency exposure
Digital cash and settlement rails are helping address twenty-four-hour market activity needs
Tokenized assets create new opportunities for collateral mobility and operational efficiency
Regulatory frameworks are shaping institutional confidence and participation decisions
Interoperability between traditional and digital systems remains critical for broader adoption

Resources:

Northern Trust Global Asset Owner Peer Study 2026

Connect with Andrew Czupek:

LinkedIn: Andrew Czupek

About Guest Name:

Northern Trust: Andrew Czupek