K33, a Nordic digital asset brokerage listed on Nasdaq First North, announced the launch of crypto-backed loans. The new product allows eligible clients to borrow USDC using Bitcoin or other digital assets as collateral, without selling their holdings. This initiative introduces a lending option previously unavailable in the Nordic crypto market.
- •K33’s crypto-backed loans let clients borrow USDC using Bitcoin or other digital assets as collateral.
- •The product supports liquidity access while maintaining long-term crypto exposure and treasury strategy.
- •Initial rollout targets eligible clients, aligning with risk management and Nordic regulatory standards.
Bitcoin Treasury Strategy Drives Lending Launch
According to CEO Torbjørn Bull Jenssen, the product is an extension of K33’s long-term Bitcoin treasury strategy. He stated that crypto-backed loans enable clients to unlock liquidity while maintaining long-term exposure to assets.
Jenssen added that the strategy also generates yield for K33’s balance sheet and strengthens its product offering. The loan product combines K33’s brokerage services with balance-sheet-backed solutions.
It is designed to enhance client engagement, expand the company’s service suite, and create yield-generating use cases for Bitcoin held as treasury. The initiative underscores K33’s positioning as a full-service digital asset company in the Nordic region.
Initial Rollout and Client Eligibility
K33 plans a limited initial rollout for selected clients. Interested parties must submit an expression of interest through K33’s website. All applications will undergo eligibility assessment and agreed-upon terms.
This measured approach ensures proper risk management and aligns with regulatory compliance standards. Clients approved for the program can use their Bitcoin and other crypto holdings to borrow USDC.
This allows access to liquidity without selling long-term positions. The structure addresses a growing need among Nordic investors for capital flexibility while retaining exposure to digital assets.
Market Context and Sector Growth
Crypto-backed lending is gaining traction globally as a complement to Bitcoin treasury strategies. Last week, World Liberty Financial launched a lending platform for Ethereum, tokenized Bitcoin, and stablecoins such as USDC and USDT.
According to industry data, crypto-collateralized loans reached $73.59 billion in volume by the third quarter of 2025, with DeFi lending adding $40.99 billion. These trends highlight the increasing adoption of collateralized lending in digital asset markets.