• Chainlink and Swift enable banks to use blockchain with existing systems through ISO 20022 Swift messages.
• UBS pilot shows banks can manage tokenized funds without changing legacy systems or building new tools.
• Chainlink and Swift also use AI to simplify and automate complex corporate action processes in global finance.

Chainlink announced a new solution at SIBOS 2025 that connects financial institutions to blockchains using Swift messaging. This system allows banks and asset managers to process digital asset transactions without overhauling their current infrastructure. Chainlink’s Runtime Environment (CRE) powers the integration, using ISO 20022-compliant messages to trigger blockchain-based smart contracts.

Banks can manage tokenized fund subscriptions and redemptions through their existing systems. The process aligns with global messaging standards, easing adoption across legacy platforms. Chainlink confirmed that the solution reduces technical barriers and simplifies access to on-chain workflows.

Pilot with UBS Tokenize Demonstrates First Use Case

The first implementation involved a pilot with UBS Tokenize, Chainlink’s partner in a technical test. This builds on earlier collaborations with the Monetary Authority of Singapore under Project Guardian. The pilot showed that financial institutions can interact with tokenized funds without building new systems or identity frameworks.

CRE processed Swift messages and activated workflows on-chain. These workflows followed Chainlink’s Digital Transfer Agent (DTA) standard. Institutions managed fund lifecycle events like subscriptions and redemptions using blockchain automation. This pilot is a key step toward streamlining asset operations across traditional and digital platforms.

AI Pilot for Corporate Actions Completes Second Phase

Chainlink also completed a separate pilot for corporate actions processing using blockchain and AI. The initiative used large language models like GPT, Gemini, and Claude to generate structured records. These records complied with ISO 20022 and were transmitted through Swift’s network.

The project was supported by major financial players such as DTCC, Euroclear, UBS, DBS, and BNP Paribas. The project demonstrated the potential of AI and blockchain to be used to minimize friction in post-trade procedures. This solution may reduce costs and operational complexity for institutions managing corporate actions globally.

Global Expansion and Industry-Wide Adoption in Focus

Swift’s infrastructure connects over 11,000 institutions across 200 countries. Chainlink aims to offer a “plug-and-play” pathway into blockchain for this global network. This approach avoids system replacements while enabling access to tokenized financial products.

Visa’s June 2025 report highlighted Chainlink’s role in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s e-HKD pilot. That was after Hong Kong accepted cryptocurrency as proof of net worth for investment visas under strict verification rules.The project tested cross-border settlement using stablecoins and blockchain-based identity verification. Participants included ANZ Bank and other major players.

Swift is also testing its own blockchain-based shared ledger with Consensys. More than 30 banks are participating, such as Bank of America and HSBC. Moreover, SWIFT partnered with major banks to test its core messaging system on the Linea blockchain, aiming to improve global payments. These changes represent a greater shift towards interoperable, compliant blockchain infrastructure in global finance.