Top 10 Global Note Depository Trusts

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Top 10 Global Note Depository Trusts

User avatar placeholder
Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Top 10 Global Note Depository Trusts

The global note depository trust landscape has been evolving significantly, driven by the increasing demand for secure and efficient management of securities. As of 2023, the global market for depository services is projected to reach approximately $10 billion, fueled by the growth of cross-border transactions and digital securities. Furthermore, according to the World Bank, the value of global securities held in custody is estimated to exceed $100 trillion, highlighting the crucial role of depository trusts in facilitating trade, investment, and financial stability.

1. The Depository Trust Company (DTC)

Headquartered in the United States, DTC is one of the largest depository trusts globally, with over 1.5 billion securities transactions processed annually. It holds more than $70 trillion in assets, providing critical settlement services for various types of securities, including equities and corporate bonds. DTC’s robust infrastructure supports the efficiency of the U.S. capital markets.

2. Euroclear

Based in Belgium, Euroclear is a leading international central securities depository with over €33 trillion in assets under custody. It processes around 150 million transactions each year, catering to institutional clients and facilitating cross-border securities transactions. Euroclear’s services are pivotal in Europe, supporting the region’s extensive bond and equity markets.

3. Clearstream Banking

Clearstream, a subsidiary of Deutsche Börse, is headquartered in Luxembourg and holds approximately €14 trillion in assets under custody. It offers settlement and custody services for various asset classes and processes around 120 million transactions annually. Clearstream’s strategic location in Europe makes it a crucial player in cross-border securities transactions.

4. National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL)

Located in India, NSDL is the first depository in the country and manages over ₹30 trillion (approximately $375 billion) in assets. It plays a significant role in facilitating the electronic holding and transfer of securities, processing around 1.5 billion transactions per year. NSDL’s growth reflects the booming Indian capital markets.

5. Central Depository Services Limited (CDSL)

Also based in India, CDSL manages over ₹20 trillion (approximately $250 billion) in assets. It has experienced rapid growth, with a 20% increase in the number of demat accounts in 2022. CDSL’s services promote transparency and efficiency in the Indian securities market.

6. Japan Securities Depository Center (JASDEC)

JASDEC, located in Japan, manages approximately ¥600 trillion ($5.4 trillion) in assets. It provides custody and settlement services for Japanese securities and plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the Japanese financial markets. JASDEC processes around 100 million transactions annually.

7. Australian Securities Depository (ASX)

The ASX operates as both a stock exchange and a depository in Australia, holding more than AUD 2 trillion (approximately $1.4 trillion) in assets. It provides clearing and settlement services for equities and derivatives, supporting over 200 million transactions per year. The ASX is vital for maintaining market confidence in Australia.

8. Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Limited (HKSCC)

HKSCC, a subsidiary of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, manages approximately HKD 40 trillion (around $5.1 trillion) in assets. It handles over 80 million transactions annually, serving as a key player in the Asian financial markets. HKSCC’s services enhance the efficiency of trading and settlement in Hong Kong.

9. Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX)

SGX is a major securities exchange and depository in Singapore, with over SGD 3 trillion (approximately $2.2 trillion) in assets under custody. It processes around 30 million transactions per year, facilitating a wide range of financial instruments. SGX is instrumental in promoting Singapore as a leading financial hub in Asia.

10. Central Securities Depository of Turkey (Takasbank)

Takasbank, located in Turkey, manages approximately TRY 3 trillion (around $150 billion) in assets. It provides settlement and custody services for Turkish securities and is essential for the development of the Turkish capital markets. Takasbank facilitates millions of transactions each year, contributing to market liquidity.

Insights

The landscape of global note depository trusts is poised for further growth, driven by technological advancements and the increasing need for secure and efficient financial services. With the rise of digital securities and blockchain technology, depositories are adapting to meet the changing demands of investors and issuers alike. According to recent forecasts, the global custodial services market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10% over the next five years. This growth will likely be fueled by increasing cross-border investments and the expansion of institutional investor participation in various markets. As the market evolves, depository trusts will play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and efficiency of global financial systems.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
View Robert’s LinkedIn Profile →