Gavin Michael, CEO of digital asset platform Bakkt, said the company is eyeing Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and the European Union for international expansion as the U.S. still lacks a clear regulatory framework, The Block reported. According to Michael, its international or Zhang plans are supported by Apex Crypto, the US-based integrated crypto trading platform acquired from Apex Fintech Solutions in April 2023. Michael also noted that Bakkt is exploring the use of Bitcoin’s Layer 2 Lightning Network for custody and settlement, explaining that it could be used for financial services such as cross-border payments.