Crypto in Banking

Digital assets, tokenization, and the evolution of crypto in banking

American Banker delivers trusted, journalist-driven analysis on how banks are navigating the world of crypto. From regulatory updates to use cases for blockchain infrastructure, this portal explores how digital assets are reshaping payments, custody, compliance, and more. Whether you're building strategy or managing risk, our crypto coverage helps financial leaders stay ahead of disruption.

American Banker highlights the areas where crypto is intersecting with core banking functions like compliance, settlement, and liquidity management. Our reporting avoids the hype and focuses on what matters to banks: oversight, infrastructure, and risk. Whether you're shaping strategy or monitoring market shifts, this is where the industry's crypto story takes shape.

Libra

Shopify joins Facebook’s embattled Libra Association

Canadian e-commerce platform Shopify Inc. announced Friday it was joining the Facebook-led Libra Association, becoming the first new member since several high-profile exits.

February 21
BankThink Mnuchin's late to the crypto regulation party

The Treasury secretary's statements are a sign that government agencies are still in the early stages of understanding this fundamentally new technology.

February 21

Chris Wilmer

University of Pittsburgh
BankThink Mnuchin's late to the crypto regulation party

The Treasury Secretary's statements are a sign that government agencies are still in the early stages of understanding this fundamentally new technology.

February 21

Chris Wilmer

University of Pittsburgh
Digital payments

Crypto giant Binance launches cloud service in revenue shift

Binance Holdings Ltd., one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency-trading platforms, has made its first foray into business services by lending its technology and liquidity to those who want to start their own exchanges.

February 18
Payment processing

How crisis and dysfunction fuel token payments

The more turmoil a region's currency or financial networks endure, the more appealing an economy driven by crypto tokens and an ability to convert those to domestic currencies becomes.

By David Heun
Associate Editor

February 18
BankThink Crypto's laundering gaps fuel its reputation problem

To appease regulators, challenger banks looking to service crypto businesses can implement effective AML controls and systems, says Fenergo's Rachel Woolley.

February 14

Rachel Woolley

Fenergo
Blockchain

FC Barcelona to issue tokens for blockchain-based fan platform

Barca, as one of the world’s most popular football clubs is known, will issue tokens for use on a fan-engagement platform.

February 14

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is American Banker’s crypto coverage different from crypto-native sites?

We don’t cover meme coins or speculative investing. Our editorial team reports from a banking-first lens — focusing on regulation, enterprise use cases, compliance, and tech partnerships involving banks, fintechs, and regulators.

What are the main ways banks are engaging with crypto today?

Digital payments innovation
Cross-border payments using blockchain rails
Tokenization of real-world assets (RWA) like treasuries and mortgages
Compliance tech for crypto transactions and AML screening
Partnerships with fintechs and exchanges

Is crypto still relevant after recent market volatility?

Yes — especially for regulated institutions. Crypto markets may be volatile, but underlying blockchain infrastructure continues to attract investment and regulatory scrutiny. Banks are investing in long-term use cases, not short-term speculation. The focus is on efficiency, transparency, and fitting new technology into existing financial systems.

Who contributes to American Banker’s crypto coverage?

Our reporters and editors have deep experience in financial regulation, payments, and fintech. We regularly interview bank executives, technologists, regulators, and policy analysts — bringing you real-world insights that matter to institutions.

Can American Banker crypto insights be shared in boardrooms and risk committees?

Yes. Our reporting is regularly cited by bank leaders, shared in investment decks, and used to support internal discussions on innovation, risk appetite, and digital transformation. For redistribution, see our licensing terms.

How do I stay up-to-date on the latest crypto news?

We update our crypto coverage regularly — in response to breaking regulatory moves, major institutional adoption, and industry shifts. Check back daily or subscribe to our newsletters to stay current. Coverage includes interviews with banking leaders, policy updates from Washington, and analysis of the latest technology pilots. As crypto continues to evolve, our reporting helps financial professionals track what matters most.

What are the key crypto-related themes to watch right now?

Banks are keeping a close eye on the growth of stablecoins, tokenized deposits, and how blockchain is being used to streamline payments and settlement. At the same time, regulatory decisions around custody, licensing, and compliance are shaping what’s possible in the months ahead.