K33 Introduces Crypto-Backed Lending, Unlocking Liquidity Without Selling Bitcoin

Source: Coindoo Original Title: K33 Introduces Crypto-Backed Lending, Unlocking Liquidity Without Selling Bitcoin Original Link:

19 January 2026

K33 AB has launched crypto-backed loans, allowing eligible clients to borrow USDC using Bitcoin and other digital assets as collateral.

The product brings a lending structure that is common in larger crypto markets into the Nordic region, where access to collateralized crypto financing has so far been limited.

Key takeaways

• K33 is introducing one of the first crypto-backed loan products in the Nordic region
• The service lets clients borrow USDC without selling Bitcoin or other digital assets
• CEO Torbjørn Bull Jenssen highlights the role of Bitcoin as an active, yield-generating treasury asset
• The move signals a maturing Nordic crypto market with more sophisticated financial products

For clients, the key appeal is straightforward: liquidity without liquidation. Instead of selling Bitcoin to raise capital – potentially giving up long-term exposure – holders can temporarily unlock value while maintaining their positions.

CEO: Liquidity without selling long-term convictions

K33 CEO Torbjørn Bull Jenssen framed the launch as a strategic extension of how the company views Bitcoin on its balance sheet. He emphasized that the goal is not simply to hold BTC, but to use it in a disciplined way that strengthens both the company’s finances and its client offering.

In practical terms, this means giving clients access to capital while aligning with their long-term belief in digital assets. At the same time, it reflects how K33’s Bitcoin treasury is designed to generate yield and support real products, rather than acting as a passive reserve.

A Bitcoin treasury built for operational leverage

The lending product is part of K33’s broader treasury strategy, which focuses on building a meaningful Bitcoin position to unlock what the company describes as operational leverage. By backing client loans with its balance sheet, K33 is creating an additional revenue stream while expanding beyond pure brokerage services.

This approach positions the company closer to a full-service digital asset firm, combining execution, custody, and financing under one roof. It also differentiates K33 from competitors that rely solely on trading volumes for revenue.

What this means for crypto markets

From a market perspective, crypto-backed lending can change behavior during volatile periods. When holders can borrow against assets instead of selling them, forced selling pressure may ease, especially during sharp drawdowns. Over time, this can contribute to more stable market dynamics and longer holding periods.

The launch also signals growing institutional maturity in the Nordic crypto sector. As balance-sheet-backed products emerge, regional firms begin to mirror traditional financial institutions, offering structured credit rather than just access to markets. If adoption grows, it could accelerate institutional participation and encourage other Nordic players to roll out similar financing solutions.

Phased rollout with risk controls

K33 is starting with a limited onboarding of selected clients. Interested parties can submit an expression of interest via the company’s website, with all applications subject to eligibility assessments and agreed lending terms. The gradual rollout suggests a cautious approach focused on risk management and balance-sheet discipline.