Big bank-backed custodian Zodia names next Australia head

Zodia Custody, an institutional digital asset custodian backed by a global coterie of big banks, has announced the next head of its Australian arm, promoting David Ball to managing director.

Ball, who currently serves as Zodia’s head of business development for APAC, in his new role as MD for Australia will be tasked with expanding the firm’s institutional client base and adoption of its services among Australian financial services firms, as well as a broader remit of furthering the adoption of digital asset custody solutions for the local market.

He succeeds Kate Cooper, who in March this year was appointed on secondment from Australian big four bank and Zodia backer NAB.

Ball joined Zodia in late 2023 from fellow digital asset custodian service BitGo. He has held various roles across the financial services and technology space, including as founding board member of peak industry advocacy group FinTech Australia and senior manager of innovation at Great Southern Bank.

Zodia group chief executive Julian Sawyer welcomed Ball’s appointment as “[reinforcing] our long-term commitment to this key market”.

“His deep understanding of institutional requirements and proven track record with our Australian clients makes him the natural choice to lead our next phase of growth.”

Sawyer added: “[We] are excited that under David’s leadership we will continue to strengthen our position as the trusted digital asset custody partner for Australian institutions.”

The Zodia group CEO also expressed gratitude to outgoing Australia chief executive Kate Cooper for her contributions over the preceding nine months.

Commenting on his new role, Ball said he looked forward to “deepening [Zodia’s] engagement with our many clients and friends in 2025 and helping drive the next wave of digital asset adoption down under”.

He added: “The Australian market presents significant opportunities for institutional digital assets, with an ever-growing demand for secure custody solutions.

“Having worked closely with Australian institutions, we understand their requirements for robust, compliant digital asset custody. I’m excited to build on our strong foundation and continue developing trusted partnerships with Australia’s leading financial institutions.”

Founded in 2020 in London, and backed by Standard Chartered, alongside Northern Trust, SBI Holdings, and NAB, Zodia Custody touts itself as the leading institution-first digital asset custodian for institutional and corporate investors.