Citi Launches Real-Time Single Event Processing Across 100+ Markets Starting North America

Citi Investor Services has launched its Single Event Processing (SEP) technology, marking a significant advancement in real-time asset servicing by unifying its global and direct custody infrastructure onto a single platform covering over 100 markets. SEP enables real-time processing of asset servicing transactions, drastically reducing event creation times from up to 40 hours to under 45 minutes and payment processing from seven hours to under five minutes. This transformation eliminates duplication, handoffs, and reconciliation delays, allowing clients faster access to funds, improved accuracy, and the ability to make smarter, timely decisions. Initially introduced in select European markets and with International Central Securities Depositories, SEP is now rolling out in North America and is expected to cover the majority of Citi’s custody flows by 2026. Citi executives emphasize that SEP redefines the future of custody by delivering integrated real-time cash, liquidity, and asset servicing, enhancing client experience and operational efficiency. The initiative is part of Citi's broader investment strategy to modernize infrastructure, simplify processes, and maintain its position as a leading global custody provider.