CME Group, a global leader in derivatives trading, has announced a partnership with Google Cloud to explore tokenization and distributed ledger technology (DLT) solutions for financial markets.

This collaboration aims to revolutionize financial markets by integrating Google Cloud’s Universal Ledger (GCUL) into CME Group’s operations, potentially transforming how transactions, clearing, and collateral management are handled.

CME Group Aims to Transform Market Efficiency with DLT Benefits

According to the March 25 release, CME Group believes that integrating Google Cloud’s Universal Ledger into its operations could significantly enhance capital market efficiency.

Furthermore, Terry Duffy, CME Group’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with the current regulatory landscapes: 

“As the President and new Administration encourage Congress to establish landmark legislation, we are pleased to partner with Google Cloud to pioneer low-cost, digital value transfer solutions.”

Google Cloud’s involvement shows its growing influence in the digital transformation of finance. Rohit Bhat, General Manager of Financial Services at Google Cloud, highlighted their mission, saying, 

“Our core mission is to provide our partners with the most advanced infrastructure, empowering them to accelerate innovation, drive efficiencies, and overcome the complexities inherent in today’s financial systems.”

The Universal Ledger is designed to offer seamless account and asset management, enabling financial institutions to integrate blockchain solutions without overhauling existing systems. This could significantly lower the barrier to entry for traditional finance players looking to benefit from the DLT.

Notably, CME Group and Google Cloud plan to conduct direct tests with market participants later this year, with new services slated for launch by 2026.

CME Group announced a partnership with Google Cloud to explore tokenization using Google Cloud’s Universal Ledger. The collaboration aims to test digital asset infrastructure for more efficient clearing and settlement. Services are expected to launch in 2026.…

— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) March 25, 2025

Google Cloud’s Expanding Role in Blockchain: Implications for Asset Tokenization in Africa

Since 2018, Google Cloud has significantly expanded its presence in the blockchain space. The company’s journey began with the integration of Bitcoin blockchain data into its BigQuery data warehouse. 

In 2023, Google Cloud added data from 11 more blockchains, including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Avalanche, and Optimism, to its BigQuery public datasets program.

In September 2024, Google Cloud launched its Blockchain Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service, starting with Ethereum. 

This service aims to improve the reliability and speed of decentralized applications (DApps) by streamlining access to blockchain data.

While much of Google Cloud’s blockchain expansion has been centered on Western financial markets, Africa is emerging as a key region for tokenization and digital asset adoption. 

A prime example is the Central African Republic (CAR), which has launched initiatives to tokenize land and natural resources, enabling digital ownership and foreign investment, though it faced regulatory challenges.

Nigeria’s real estate sector is also adopting blockchain solutions. Platforms like HouseAfrica and Seso Global enable fractional property ownership through tokenized assets, enhance investment opportunities, and streamline land registry processes.

Meanwhile, Kenyan blockchain firms are exploring carbon credit tokenization, which would allow companies to trade blockchain-certified carbon offsets and foster accountability in Africa’s environmental initiatives.

As tokenization expands across the continent, Google Cloud’s blockchain expertise, including its Universal Ledger, BigQuery analytics, and Web3 infrastructure services, could provide the secure and scalable foundation needed to accelerate adoption.