Bahrain bank eyes digital settlement as Partior expands

The assessment will consider whether the bank can become a designated clearing institution on the multi-currency network.

The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with blockchain settlement provider Partior to assess the potential integration of the Bahraini Dinar (BHD) onto Partior’s multi-bank network.

The agreement provides a framework for both institutions to evaluate technical feasibility, operational requirements, and compliance standards necessary to introduce BHD settlement capabilities.

The assessment will examine regulatory considerations within Bahrain’s financial system to determine whether NBB can serve as a designated BHD settlement bank on the platform.

Partior operates a live, multi-currency blockchain network created to process interbank clearing, settlement, and cross-border commercial payments.

Adding the Bahraini Dinar would expand the platform’s supported currency options and extend its operational footprint across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Vineet Munot, Group Head of Transaction Banking at NBB, stated that the partnership allows the institution to evaluate how its local market capabilities can support digital settlement infrastructure while addressing operational, technical, and regulatory requirements.

Humphrey Valenbreder, CEO of Partior, said expanding currency availability across modern platforms is essential for improving financial market interoperability and supporting efficient cross-border settlement flows.