Swiss bank Sygnum partners with Debifi to launch multi-sig Bitcoin loan platform

Sygnum has partnered with Debifi to launch MultiSYG, a first-of-its-kind loan platform allowing borrowers to retain partial control of their Bitcoin collateral through a secure multi-sig wallet.

MultiSYG: shared-control Bitcoin lending for institutions

Swiss digital asset institution Sygnum Bank has announced a partnership with Bitcoin (BTC) lending startup Debifi to develop MultiSYG, a loan platform that allows borrowers to retain partial control of their BTC collateral.

Set to launch in the first half of 2026, MultiSYG aims to provide institutional and high-net-worth clients with a secure alternative to traditional crypto lending, where full custody of assets is typically surrendered to the lender.

The platform operates through a multi-signature wallet system that requires approval from three of five signatories — including Sygnum, the borrower, and independent parties — for any movement of collateral. This setup is designed to prevent rehypothecation — a financial practice where a lender or custodian reuses collateral that a borrower has pledged — often without the borrower’s active involvement — to back another loan or transaction.

By implementing this shared-control model, Sygnum and Debifi aim to eliminate the single points of failure that have previously led to major losses in centralized lending platforms. Borrowers will be able to verify the existence and status of their BTC collateral on-chain throughout the whole duration of the loan.

According to Debifi CEO Max Kei, the initiative reflects a growing demand for non-custodial lending solutions that combine blockchain transparency with regulated banking standards.

“Borrowers shouldn’t need to trust a custodian blindly,” said Debifi CEO Max Kei in a statement.

“[This] combines the best of both worlds — the ability to hold your own keys while accessing regulated banking products and white-glove service,” said Pascal Eberle, who leads the MultiSYG project. “Borrowers can benefit from bank-grade terms in pricing, drawdown flexibility and loan duration, while keeping cryptographic proof of their holdings and partial control of their BTC.”