LSEG outlines 24/5 trading and tokenized equity plans

London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) announced a series of initiatives aimed at extending trading hours and introducing tokenised equity products. The roadmap targets a 24‑hour, five‑day trading cycle, a digital securities depository and new infrastructure partnerships.

24/5 Trading Cycle (LSEG24)

LSEG plans to shift to a continuous trading schedule, dubbed LSEG24, in the first half of 2027. The extended hours are intended to align with global market demand and provide more flexibility for investors.

Digital Securities Depository and Tokenised Equities

The group is developing a digital securities depository to record and settle eligible assets. Alongside this, LSEG aims to launch tokenised equity tokens, though details on the legal structure or specific securities have not been disclosed.

Partnerships with Kraken and HSBC

• Kraken: LSEG will work with the crypto‑native exchange to list tokenised equities on its platform.
• HSBC: An MOU has been signed to create an interoperable link between LSEG’s infrastructure and the bank’s systems.

Context and Industry Trends

These moves come as other exchanges and brokers explore ways to connect traditional shares with blockchain networks. Products vary between representing beneficial interests in custodised securities and providing synthetic price exposure. Regulatory considerations remain central, especially in the United States, where tokenised securities must still comply with federal securities law.

Challenges of Always‑On Markets

While blockchain can offer real‑time transaction records, settlement of cash flows still depends on traditional banking rails, which may not operate continuously. LSEG’s earlier launch of a Digital Settlement House in 2026 aims to address this by supporting 24/7 transfers of commercial bank money, securities and digital assets.