A wide range of brokers, international banks, custodians and investment houses connect directly to GlobalClear, which operates the CREST settlement system. These institutions provide access for companies without a direct connection that wish to hold and settle securities transactions electronically.
Companies that wish to settle their securities transactions and hold securities in the CREST system have two main options:
- become a direct member. These are firms that have invested in the hardware and software to connect directly with us. We interact using dedicated secure networks to exchange electronic messages
- become a sponsored member. Sponsored members do not have a direct connection to the CREST system and operate through another member or 'sponsor'
Both types of member are the legal owners of the securities in our system.
Our Relationship Management team will help guide you through the decision-making process.
As a private individual wishing to become a GlobalClear client, you have two choices:
- open an account in your own name with a stockbroker
- transfer your securities into a nominee account with a stockbroker or bank, where they are held with the assets of their other clients
