On August 21, Copper.co announced it now supports Mina Protocol, adding custody and staking services for the zero-knowledge blockchain’s native token. This integration enhances digital asset options for institutional investors, allowing them to engage with the Mina Protocol ecosystem through Copper’s infrastructure.
Institutional Focus
Founded in 2018, Copper provides institutional investors with access to digital assets, featuring an MPC wallet and the ClearLoop off-exchange settlement solution, launched in 2020. ClearLoop enables users to manage collateral and settle trades across major crypto exchanges without moving assets off Copper’s platform.
The inclusion of Mina Protocol’s MINA staking is aimed at increasing the adoption of zero-knowledge (ZK) technology. Kurt Hemecker, CEO of the Mina Foundation, highlighted that Copper’s custody solution will offer professional and institutional entities more options for diversifying their crypto portfolios. He also pointed out the potential for ZK technology in applications like zk-KYC credentials, which help with compliance while maintaining user privacy.
Institutional Adoption and Recent Developments
Copper co-founder and CEO Dmitry Tokarev noted that the crypto and blockchain sectors are at a crucial point for institutional adoption. The recent approval and launch of Ethereum ETFs by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission have spurred greater interest in reliable tools for cryptocurrency exposure.
In addition to its new partnership with Mina Protocol, Copper has recently collaborated with Hedera to enhance institutional access to Hedera’s native token. This integration allows investors to use Copper Connect and Hedera’s protocols, such as SaucerSwap, for HBAR and Hedera Token Service utility. Copper also extended its custody and staking services to Internet Computer in July.
