Securities Services: the key role of custody services in the financial ecosystem

In a financial market where efficiency and safety are paramount, custody services not only safeguard the assets of companies and investors but also foster transparency, regulatory compliance, and operational agility. While often operating behind the scenes, these solutions play a fundamental role in the infrastructure of the global financial system.

What are securities services?

Securities services comprise a set of post-trade services that facilitate the administration, safekeeping and transfer of financial assets. These solutions cover essential functions such as the depositary, which monitors the activity of the asset management companies; custody, which holds and protects clients’ assets; settlement, the process in which the purchase and sale of securities are finalised; and clearing, which ensures that payment obligations are met before the settlement phase. These services represent the backbone of the efficient functioning of financial markets.

From traditional custody to advanced solutions

Custody is no longer just about asset protection: it has evolved into a discipline that anticipates risk, connects markets, and generates operational intelligence. In a world where assets move at digital speed and decisions are driven by real-time data, custody has shifted from being a silent background function to a strategic partner in asset management.

Today, advanced custody services offer much more: access to international markets, operational automation, streamlined regulatory compliance, and tools that optimise every step of the investment cycle. It is no longer simply about safeguarding assets, but about supporting growth. In this context, advanced custody services operate as an invisible yet critical platform, enabling financial institutions to act with confidence, precision, and global scale. Choosing a custodian with vision and technology can be the difference between merely operating—and scaling with confidence.

Key functions and objectives of custody services

Custody services cover a broad spectrum of essential functions for the smooth functioning of capital markets:

• Asset safekeeping and administration: Ensures the protection and operational management of a client’s financial instruments—such as equities, bonds, or funds—including secure safekeeping, corporate action processing, and lifecycle management of each security.


• Settlement and clearing: Facilitates the transfer of ownership and ensures accurate, timely settlement of securities transactions. These services ensure every trade is executed precisely and in accordance with the agreed terms.


• Depositary: The entity or function responsible for supervising and safekeeping the assets of Collective Investment Vehicles and Pension Funds. Beyond safekeeping, the depositary ensures the fund’s regulatory compliance by verifying that its operations align with current legislation and internal policies. Its role is key in providing confidence and transparency to investors.

Digitalisation and digital assets

The securities services sector is undergoing a profound transformation. Digitalisation, the rise of digital assets, and constantly evolving regulations are reshaping the needs of both companies and investors. These trends demand innovative and flexible solutions that can adapt to a dynamic and challenging environment.

BBVA’s value proposition

BBVA stands out as a benchmark in the field of securities services, with a value proposition built on three pillars: global reach with local expertise, tailored innovation, and cutting-edge technology focused on efficiency.

With a strong presence in Spain and Latin America, and an international network of sub-custodians, BBVA combines deep knowledge of local markets with a global outlook. This allows clients to navigate the regulatory and operational complexities of each jurisdiction with confidence. Moreover, BBVA offers bespoke services designed to meet evolving market demands, helping clients manage their assets securely and efficiently.

Fernando García Rojo, Head of Sales for Global Securities Services at BBVA CIB, notes: “We strive to stay at the forefront of industry trends, developing innovative solutions that enable our clients to meet their goals in a constantly changing environment. Our commitment is to be a strategic partner that adds value and supports the growth of their businesses.”

In a sector in constant flux, securities services continue to evolve in response to the challenges of digitalisation and financial innovation. BBVA remains steadfast in its mission to lead this transformation, offering comprehensive, customised solutions that drive its clients’ long-term success.