Hamilton Lane introduced a tokenized share class for its Global Private Assets Fund (GPA) in partnership with Allfunds Blockchain, Apex Group, and BBVA Asset Management. The initiative is designed to provide institutional investors with blockchain-based access to private market assets. BBVA Asset Management committed to serve as the first investor and received a three-month exclusive distribution period for institutional portfolios linked to the tokenized share class. The participating firms described the development as a step toward modernizing private market distribution through blockchain infrastructure.
Partnership Structure and Roles
The tokenized share class operates through the Allfunds platform, with Allfunds Blockchain providing the underlying technology infrastructure. Apex Group serves as the transfer agent overseeing digital subscription, administration, and servicing functions. BBVA Asset Management's exclusive distribution period reflects its strategy of exploring blockchain-enabled distribution channels for private market products across Europe, according to the firms involved.
Hamilton Lane GPA is structured as an evergreen fund intended to provide diversified exposure to private market assets through a single investment commitment. Victor Jung, head of digital assets at Hamilton Lane, stated that the tokenized structure was developed to improve investor access to private markets in a faster, more cost-efficient, and scalable manner. He indicated that partnerships with Allfunds Blockchain and Apex Group helped create an operating framework capable of supporting long-term institutional adoption.
Strategic Rationale for Tokenization
The companies involved described the initiative as an example of blockchain infrastructure being applied to traditional financial products. They stated that tokenization could simplify investor onboarding and reduce operational friction within private markets. Ruben Nieto, managing director at Allfunds Blockchain, stated that the collaboration supports the development of a new digital operating model designed to streamline distribution and improve transparency for asset managers and investors.
BBVA Asset Management representatives noted that tokenization has the potential to create more efficient access to investment opportunities while improving the client investment experience. Peter Hughes, founder and chief executive officer of Apex Group, stated that tokenization is reshaping how investors gain access to private markets and that Apex Group is focused on developing digital infrastructure capable of supporting this transition at scale.
Industry Context
The launch reflects a broader trend in global finance, where major institutions are exploring blockchain-based systems to modernize fund distribution, administration, and investor access within traditionally illiquid markets. Hamilton Lane stated that the launch builds on its strategy of increasing institutional access to private markets through technology-driven solutions, with a focus on tokenization and digitalization initiatives.
