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Federated Hermes to Launch First Onchain Fund Shares Amid Evolving Digital Landscape

Cryptelio Editorial Published 13 Oct 2026 · 16:15 UTC
Federated Hermes to Launch First Onchain Fund Shares Amid Evolving Digital Landscape

Federated Hermes, a prominent money market manager with approximately $912 billion in assets under management, is set to introduce its first fund shares that will operate directly onchain. This initiative is still in the developmental phase, contingent on the evolution of digital transfer agency models.

The core strategy revolves around money market funds, with Federated Hermes managing $676.9 billion in this category as of June 30, 2026. The proposed onchain share class would allow shares to be recorded and transferred on a blockchain, moving away from traditional ledger systems.

Kevin Barr, appointed as Director of Digital Assets Product and Platform Strategy in May 2026, is leading this effort. The firm has already established partnerships, including one with UK-based Archax in October 2025, enabling tokenized access to three UCITS money market funds through beneficial ownership tokens across multiple blockchains.

On June 9, 2026, Federated Hermes launched its Digital Treasury Fund, designated with the ticker OFFXX, which is aligned with the GENIUS Act and anticipates the addition of tokenized share classes as regulatory frameworks mature. Furthermore, a strategic partnership with Conduit Digital Holdings was announced on September 1, 2026, aimed at developing a regulated tokenized fund distribution system in the Asia-Pacific region.

This move towards tokenized share classes could provide institutional investors with the ability to manage money market exposure alongside other onchain assets. However, the timeline for a fully operational onchain share class remains uncertain, dependent on the progress of digital transfer agency models and regulatory developments.

As the landscape for tokenized funds evolves, OFFXX is positioned as a potential testing ground, while the Conduit partnership may reveal the demand for tokenized access to U.S. money market products in international markets.

FAQ

What is the purpose of Federated Hermes launching onchain fund shares?

Federated Hermes aims to introduce onchain fund shares to operate directly on a blockchain, moving away from traditional ledger systems, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of money market funds.

What is the current status of the onchain fund shares initiative?

The initiative is still in the developmental phase and is contingent on the evolution of digital transfer agency models and regulatory frameworks.

What is the significance of the Digital Treasury Fund (OFFXX) launched by Federated Hermes?

The Digital Treasury Fund, designated with the ticker OFFXX, is aligned with the GENIUS Act and serves as a potential testing ground for tokenized share classes as regulatory frameworks mature.

Who is leading the effort for Federated Hermes' digital assets strategy?

Kevin Barr, who was appointed as Director of Digital Assets Product and Platform Strategy in May 2026, is leading the effort for Federated Hermes' digital assets strategy.

What partnerships has Federated Hermes established to support its onchain initiatives?

Federated Hermes has established partnerships with UK-based Archax for tokenized access to UCITS money market funds and with Conduit Digital Holdings to develop a regulated tokenized fund distribution system in the Asia-Pacific region.

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