Hamilton Lane, a major private markets investment firm, has introduced a new tokenized share class designed to provide investors with access to the Hamilton Lane Global Private Assets Fund (GPA). The initiative was developed in partnership with Allfunds Blockchain, the digital innovation division of Allfunds, and Apex Group.
The launch also secured participation from BBVA Asset Management, which committed to act as the first investor and the initial exclusive distributor for institutional portfolios linked to the tokenized share class.
The companies involved described the development as an important milestone for private market accessibility, highlighting how blockchain-powered distribution systems could improve operational efficiency, transparency, and flexibility for institutional investors. The tokenized share class will operate through the Allfunds platform, while Allfunds Blockchain will provide the underlying technology infrastructure. Apex Group will serve as the transfer agent overseeing digital subscription, administration, and servicing functions.
As part of the arrangement, BBVA Asset Management received an exclusive three-month distribution period. The firms indicated that this exclusivity reflects BBVA’s broader strategy of advancing digital innovation and exploring new blockchain-enabled distribution channels for private market products across Europe.
Tokenization Pushes Private Markets Toward Digitalization
Hamilton Lane stated that the launch builds on its broader strategy of increasing institutional access to private markets through technology-driven solutions. The company has increasingly focused on tokenization and digitalization initiatives as part of its efforts to modernize investment products traditionally reserved for select institutional participants.
Hamilton Lane GPA, the investment vehicle connected to the tokenized share class, is structured as an evergreen fund intended to provide diversified exposure to private market assets through a single investment commitment. The model is designed to simplify investor participation while broadening access to alternative investment opportunities.
Victor Jung, head of digital assets at Hamilton Lane, reportedly explained that the tokenized structure was developed to improve investor access to private markets in a faster, more cost-efficient, and scalable manner. He also indicated that partnerships with established firms such as Allfunds Blockchain and Apex Group helped create an efficient operating framework capable of supporting long-term institutional adoption.
The new tokenized share class enables blockchain-based digital subscription, administration, and servicing for institutional investors seeking exposure to private market assets.
Financial Firms Accelerate Blockchain Adoption
Executives from Allfunds Blockchain emphasized that the initiative demonstrates how blockchain technology can produce measurable efficiency gains within the investment fund sector. Ruben Nieto, managing director at Allfunds Blockchain, reportedly stated that the collaboration with Hamilton Lane and Apex Group supports the development of a new digital operating model designed to streamline distribution and improve transparency for both asset managers and investors.
According to the participating firms, the project represents a practical example of blockchain infrastructure being applied to traditional financial products rather than speculative cryptocurrency activity. The companies also suggested that tokenization could simplify investor onboarding and reduce operational friction within private markets.
BBVA Asset Management indicated that the initiative aligns with its commitment to financial innovation and digital transformation. Company representatives reportedly noted that tokenization has the potential to create more efficient access to sophisticated investment opportunities while improving the overall client investment experience.
BBVA Asset Management joined the initiative as both the first investor and exclusive early distributor, signaling growing institutional confidence in blockchain-powered investment products.
Peter Hughes, founder and chief executive officer of Apex Group, reportedly stated that tokenization is reshaping how investors gain access to private markets. He explained that Apex Group is focused on developing digital infrastructure capable of supporting this transition at scale and improving transparency across the investment ecosystem.
The collaboration between Hamilton Lane, Allfunds Blockchain, Apex Group, and BBVA highlights the increasing adoption of tokenization as a mainstream infrastructure solution for private market investments.
The launch reflects a broader trend in global finance, where major institutions are increasingly exploring blockchain-based systems to modernize fund distribution, administration, and investor access within traditionally illiquid markets.
