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New lending service Tokenet debuts as SEC eyes spot Bitcoin ETF, targeting institutional borrowers and filling gap left by Genesis, Celsius and BlockFi
Tokenet, the institutional crypto‑lending platform built by Digital Prime Technologies, went live this week, positioning itself to serve spot Bitcoin ETF issuers while the U.S. SEC reviews multiple ETF applications [2]. The launch aims to restore confidence in digital‑asset lending after the collapse of several major lenders last year.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Platform | Tokenet (Digital Prime Technologies) |
| Catalyst | Anticipated SEC approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs |
| Partner | Gibraltar‑based Xapo Bank |
| Target users | Institutional crypto‑ETF operators, lenders |
Tokenet’s rollout comes as the SEC evaluates up to ten spot Bitcoin ETF proposals, including filings from BlackRock and other heavyweight managers [2]. By offering a dedicated lending infrastructure, Tokenet seeks to bridge the “void left by the demise of several crypto lending firms last year,” according to its CEO James Runnels [2]. The service provides collateral management, loan‑lifecycle tools, risk‑management features and a chat interface for lenders and borrowers.
Digital Prime Technologies, based in New Jersey, announced that Tokenet is already collaborating with Xapo Bank, a Gibraltar‑registered crypto‑bank, to deliver the platform’s first institutional‑grade lending products [2]. Runnels described the offering as “redefining digital asset lending and embracing the regulatory safeguards of traditional finance,” a claim that underscores the firm’s intent to align with conventional banking standards while catering to crypto‑focused clients [2].
The platform’s timing is strategic: with the SEC’s pending decision expected to trigger a surge in Bitcoin‑ETF demand, Tokenet can enable “shares to be created as demand booms” and allow “specialized traders to redeem the shares accordingly” [2]. This functionality mirrors the traditional ETF model, where lenders provide the underlying asset to back newly issued shares.
The collapse of Genesis, Celsius and BlockFi in 2022 cleared market space for new entrants, and Tokenet’s launch signals a “rebirth of crypto lending,” according to Runnels’ remarks to Bloomberg [2]. Analysts note that the platform’s success will hinge on the SEC’s final ruling; a positive outcome could drive institutional inflows, while a denial would likely dampen demand for spot‑ETF‑related lending services.
Tokenet’s entry illustrates how the crypto‑lending sector is re‑aligning with emerging regulatory clarity, positioning itself to capture the next wave of institutional Bitcoin demand—provided the SEC’s verdict opens the door for spot ETFs.
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AI-assisted synthesis by the TrendWatcher Editorial Desk · sourced from 2 outlets · Jul 8, 2026 · How we report
Users deposit cryptocurrency to earn interest as lenders, or they lock their digital assets as collateral to borrow funds without selling their holdings.
It is a decentralized financial service that operates across multiple blockchain networks, allowing users to lend and borrow assets on different chains to increase accessibility and liquidity.
Some platforms operate as decentralized protocols without credit checks, while others, such as Nexo, may obtain specific authorizations to offer regulated credit services within local consumer credit frameworks.
Primary risks include market volatility, the potential for collateral liquidation, and the fact that funds deposited on these platforms are typically not insured.