Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:UBER) has partnered with HSBC Holdings (NYSE:HSBC) and Franklin Templeton (NYSE:BEN) in a blockchain-based investment pilot to earn additional returns on idle corporate cash through weekend trading.
How Did Uber Earn Extra Yield Using Blockchain?
Uber used HSBC’s tokenized bank deposits to purchase a Franklin Templeton tokenized money market fund on a Thursday before selling the investment on Sunday.
The transaction allowed Uber to capture an additional 1.5 days of yield compared with traditional treasury operations, where companies typically liquidate investments before markets close on Friday.
The pilot involved HSBC, Franklin Templeton, Tradeweb Markets (NASDAQ:TW) and Fireblocks, with the Canton Network facilitating liquidity and settlement, Bloomberg reported.
This signals how blockchain infrastructure could help corporate treasurers generate returns on idle funds without sacrificing access to liquidity.
Could Blockchain Transform Corporate Treasury Management?
Fireblocks CEO Michael Shaulov expects hundreds of corporations to adopt blockchain-based investment models within 18 months.
Tokenized deposits and money market funds could help companies earn returns on idle cash around the clock while reducing reliance on costly credit facilities.
HSBC’s Manish Kohli said the pilot demonstrated technical readiness, with plans to expand access to U.S. corporate customers and offer more investment options.
The bank also plans to expand investment options beyond Franklin Templeton’s offerings.
Is Institutional Tokenization Gaining Momentum?
Nearly $40 billion in assets have been tokenized, according to RWA.xyz, as institutional blockchain adoption accelerates.
Nearly 40 financial institutions recently tested blockchain-based trading and settlement, while Uber’s pilot highlights growing interest in corporate treasury applications.
Around-the-clock settlement and higher yields could drive broader adoption.
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