A custodian is an individual or entity responsible for safeguarding and managing assets or property on behalf of another party, ensuring their security and proper maintenance. Custodians play a crucial role in financial markets, legal trusts, and physical asset management, often acting as fiduciaries with a duty to act in the best interest of the asset owner.
Financial Markets Infrastructure (FMI) refers to the foundational systems and institutions that enable the effective operation of financial markets, ensuring the smooth transfer of funds and securities. It encompasses payment systems, central securities depositories, securities settlement systems, central counterparties, and trade repositories, all of which play a critical role in maintaining financial stability and efficiency.