BBK showcased its Google Cloud Universal Ledger (GCUL) pilot at Fintech Forward 2026, demonstrating advanced digital ledger technology integrated into its core cash management systems for tokenised payments and 24/7 programmable settlement.
Developed in collaboration with Array Innovation — a cloud-native digital solutions firm and portfolio company of Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat — and tech giant Google Cloud, the showcase highlighted the platform’s integration with existing banking infrastructure in a user acceptance test environment.
Commenting on the initiative, BBK Group chief executive Yaser Alsharifi said: “Fintech Forward 2026 provides a valuable opportunity to present our pilot to banking leaders and tech specialists. Our focus is on the value these technologies bring to customers, and working with Array reflects our disciplined approach to innovation—with rigorous testing to establish a clear business case prior to adoption.”
The GCUL platform is a multi-currency, programmable distributed ledger designed to reduce transaction costs, unlock liquidity, and build round-the-clock cross-border corridors while supporting smart contract-enabled transactions.
Array Innovation founder and chief executive Alaa Saeed noted that the project underscores local technical capabilities, saying: “Presenting this pilot allows us to demonstrate the expertise of Bahraini talent in delivering advanced financial technology projects across cloud computing and smart contracts.”
Dr James Tromans, managing director for Web3 and digital assets at Google Cloud, added that the successful core integration highlights GCUL’s ability to power “scalable, secure, and compliant digital financial infrastructure” across Bahrain and the wider region.
The pilot lays the foundation for future digital assets and tokenised finance services as part of BBK’s ongoing core banking modernisation strategy.
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