Circuit and DaLand enable direct Bitcoin access for credit unions

Direct integration for credit unions

This new program gives participating credit unions access to DaLand’s CODE Engine and Coin2Core suite, technologies that integrate digital asset capabilities straight into legacy banking platforms such as Corelation KeyStone, Fiserv DNA, and Jack Henry Symitar. The approach enables credit unions to maintain custody, data, and member relationships through what DaLand describes as a “Hybrid Custody” model, rather than relying on third-party crypto providers.

Mini dictionary: DaLand CUSO, a technology services company focused on credit unions, specializes in integrating digital asset solutions directly into credit union infrastructure. Circuit is a coalition of credit unions aimed at sharing resources and developing innovative digital financial services.

Initial adoption signals momentum

Three credit unions have already launched the new platform: St. Cloud Financial Credit Union, which has issued its own stablecoin, $CLDUSD; Canvas Credit Union, with $5 billion in assets and now a DaLand stakeholder; and Blaze Credit Union, which has also invested in the initiative as an owner. According to DaLand, the current production footprint extends to more than $10 billion in combined assets among affiliated credit unions.

Industry context and legislative push

The rollout coincides with growing legislative momentum, including the passage of the GENIUS Act and other federal initiatives that encourage financial institutions to develop formal digital asset strategies. Executives emphasized that their organizations are moving beyond analysis, now deploying technology solutions on production rails.

Canvas Credit Union CIO David Pierce said the institution prioritized building infrastructure it could control. “We weren’t looking for another concept to study,” he explained, highlighting the importance of ownership over rented solutions. Justin Burleson of Blaze Credit Union stated the organization wanted to keep digital asset activities transparent for regulators, boards, and members rather than outsourcing them to external vendors. Burleson noted his experience as a former National Credit Union Administration official informed this approach.

“We weren’t looking for another concept to study; we wanted infrastructure we could own, not rent. Keeping digital asset activity visible to examiners, boards, and members was a priority,” said Justin Burleson of Blaze Credit Union.

Education and next steps

Circuit spent the past year developing educational resources to help its members understand digital assets. Chief Strategy Officer Ethan Cunningham stated the next phase represents a transition from study to hands-on evaluation. “Innovation moves faster when credit unions share what they’re learning,” Cunningham commented.

Innovation accelerates as credit unions collaborate and exchange their digital asset experiences, said Circuit’s Ethan Cunningham.

Credit unions that wish to participate in the initiative may contact DaLand CUSO or Circuit directly for more information.