XDC Network is now reportedly working with Animoca Brands as a strategic institutional validator. Announced recently this month, the partnership sees the Web3 investor and builder operating masternodes on the specialized network, which handles substantial volumes in trade finance and real-world asset (RWA) transactions each year. This move represents an important step forward for XDC Network’s initiative to attract institutional investors and other industry participants.
As global interest in enterprise-level blockchain / DLT solutions grows, XDC stands out with its tailored hybrid design.
Unlike broader general-purpose chains, it focuses on practical applications such as international trade settlements, cross-border payments, and the tokenization of tangible assets, making it particularly appealing for serious institutional use.
Animoca Brands will now contribute directly to network security by running masternodes alongside established players including Deutsche Telekom, HashKeyCloud, Republic, SBI Holdings, and UOB Venture Management.
Known for its activity in Web3 investments and project development, Animoca brings significant credibility and connectivity to XDC’s validator community.
Atul Khekade, co-founder of XDC Network, emphasized the importance of matching advanced infrastructure with equally capable participants.
He noted that the addition enhances not only the network’s reputation but also its potential to drive liquidity and activity in RWAs, aligning perfectly with XDC’s foundational goals for real-world utility.
Shanlong James Chen, Head of Asia at XDC Network and Head of Strategic Investments at its venture arm XVC Tech, highlighted Animoca’s strong global presence and portfolio of companies.
He suggested the collaboration could open doors for builders on the XDC platform, including opportunities for future funding and ecosystem expansion in the blockchain space.
From Animoca’s perspective, Samuel Tse, Vice President of Investments, Strategies, and Partnerships, pointed to the network’s proven success in trade finance and its expanding RWA applications.
“This allows us to engage at the core infrastructure level with a chain addressing real challenges in international finance,” he stated, adding that it fits well with the firm’s forward-looking strategy on tokenized assets.
XDC Network operates as an open-source, enterprise-focused protocol optimized for global trade and finance.
Its architecture efficiently supports asset tokenization, seamless settlements, and sophisticated decentralized applications, enabling a diverse range of projects involving stablecoins, digital assets, and trade-related solutions worldwide.
Animoca Brands has established itself as a key player in digital assets, actively shaping ecosystems that blend AI, the agentic web, and blockchain innovation.
The company reportedly has a portfolio exceeding 600 investments and is behind notable platforms like The Sandbox, Open Campus, and Moca Network.
It has earned recognition from lists such as Fortune Crypto 40 and Deloitte’s high-growth rankings, underscoring its influence in redefining future economies.
This partnership underscores a broader trend: institutional players are increasingly seeking specialized blockchains with practical utility rather than hype-driven alternatives. By deepening ties between a Web3 investor and an enterprise-grade network, the collaboration could accelerate innovation in tokenized finance and cross-border commerce, benefiting developers, institutions, and users.