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.

Blockchain

Wells Fargo’s Digital Cash plants seeds for bigger blockchain opportunities

Giants like Facebook, JPMorgan Chase and Walmart are all pushing blockchain for myriad use cases, and now Wells Fargo has joined the fray with its own spin on the distributed ledger technology.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

September 17
Technology

Why this credit union is taking innovation into its own hands

Hawaii State FCU has a dedicated branch for testing new products. It's a format that other institutions could follow.

By Michael Bartlett

September 16
BankThink Mobile wallets need blockchain for the next stage

Even without cryptocurrency, blockchain provides necessary security and processing benefits, says Tatvasoft's Vikash Kumar.

September 13

Vikash Kumar

Tatvasoft.
BankThink New Zealand's progressive approach is a boost for cryptocurrency

The new regulation in New Zealand shows other jurisdictions how best to address cryptocurrencies and their use in payments.

September 13

Dave Hodgson

NEM Ventures
Digital currencies

Zelle founder to helm Ripple rival Interstellar

The creator of the Zelle precursor clearXchange is heading a company building a blockchain-based international payment technology for banks.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent

September 12
Digital payments

Tiny pacific nation makes a go of its own digital currency

The Marshall Islands is proceeding with the creation of a blockchain-based national currency, the Marshallese sovereign or SOV, the country said.

September 12
BankThink New Zealand's progressive approach is a boost for cryptocurrency

This ruling by the New Zealand Government shows the jurisdiction’s versatility in broaching how best to address cryptocurrencies and the implementation of regulations around their use in payments, says NEM Ventures' Dave Hodgson.

September 12

Dave Hodgson

NEM Ventures

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.