UK startup CurveBlock approved to join Digital Securities Sandbox
CurveBlock, a UK-based proptech start-up pioneering carbon-zero housing and real estate tokenisation, has been officially approved to join the UK's Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS) — a joint initiative from the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
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CurveBlock becomes the ninth company to enter the DSS and the first to focus on real estate development fund tokenisation, a sector that analysts predict could unlock trillions in new investment. The firm successfully passed Gate 1 of the sandbox entry process and will now begin the process of completing full applications to both the BoE and FCA for full authorisation.
Founded in Leeds in 2018 by Gary Woodhead, Joey Jones, and Matthew Couch, CurveBlock is on a mission to democratise access to real estate development. Through blockchain-based digital shares, CurveBlock allows investors to take part in sustainable housing projects that produce more energy than they consume.
Joey Jones, Co-Founder at CurveBlock said: 'We're delighted to become the ninth firm approved to join the Digital Securities Sandbox. This is a major step in our journey and a unique opportunity to test and evolve our platform under the guidance of the UK's leading financial regulators. It brings us closer to our vision of unlocking inclusive investment opportunities in real estate tokenisation.'
The DSS was launched to provide a safe, structured environment for firms to trial innovative models in digital finance, with the goal of strengthening the UK's position as a global hub for fintech and sustainable growth. Participants engage with regulators at each stage and can progress through further gates that expand the scope of their permitted activities.
CurveBlock's entry into the DSS comes at a pivotal moment for real estate tokenisation. A recent Deloitte report forecasts the global tokenised property market could soar from under $300 billion today to $4 trillion by 2035, with benefits including faster settlements, lower costs, and broader investor access.
CurveBlock has also announced plans for a Series A funding round following its DSS approval in the coming months.
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