GLEIF modernises the LEI: rethinking digital corporate identity

26 May 2025

Trust is crucial in an increasingly digitalised business world – especially in online transactions between companies. The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) is working hard to strengthen this trust by further developing the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) system. In a recent episode of the ID Talk podcast, Alexandre Kech, CEO of GLEIF, provides exciting insights into the digital future of corporate identity – with a special focus on the verifiable LEI (vLEI).

What is an LEI?

The LEI is a globally unique identifier for legal entities. Consisting of a 20-digit alphanumeric code, the LEI number allows companies to be identified in regulatory reports and financial transactions. Since the 2008 financial crisis, the LEI has established itself as an international standard – especially in the financial sector, where it supports transparency and compliance.

From the LEI number to the vLEI

With the vLEI, GLEIF is launching a digital, cryptographically secured further development of the LEI. The vLEI enables companies to use their LEI number securely and tamper-proof in digital ecosystems. This is a milestone – not only for regulatory requirements but also for use in future technologies such as Web3, blockchain and artificial intelligence.

LEI registration made easy

LEI registration is the first step towards joining this digital trust infrastructure. Companies can register and manage their LEI number with lei.net.

GLEIF works closely with partners worldwide to make the registration process simple, fast, and secure. The introduction of the vLEI will also take LEI registration to a new, fully digital level.

Digital identity as a global standard

According to Kech, the long-term vision is clear: the vLEI should establish itself as a globally recognised standard for digital corporate identities. GLEIF invests heavily in collaborations with governments, financial institutions and technology service providers to build an interoperable digital infrastructure that companies can use worldwide.

Summary:

The LEI and the vLEI, in particular, mark a decisive step in the evolution of digital identity systems for companies. Those who invest in LEI registration now are optimally positioned for the requirements of tomorrow’s digital economy.