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.

Compliance

Massachusetts assembles fintech panel after crypto crackdown

Digital-asset companies will try to develop a less adversarial relationship with the state's securities regulator, who stopped several startups from selling digital currencies as investments.

By Will Hernandez

March 7
Compliance

Credit Agricole-backed fintech startup in insolvency filing

SETL, a London-based blockchain startup with a former Bank of France governor on its board and Credit Agricole SA among its investors, appointed administrators to reorganize the business.

March 7
Blockchain

Can blockchain stop small-biz invoice double dipping?

Small-business projects in India and Latin America will provide a test of how well an open source blockchain can reduce the fraud that can occur when businesses try to free up capital from outstanding payments.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

March 7
BankThink Big tech’s blockchain projects haven’t disrupted banks — yet

Tech giants have been experimenting with blockchain technologies for years, and while they haven’t displaced banks, there’s still cause for concern.

March 5

Igor Pejic
Cyber security

Coinbase cuts ties with hacking team following spyware backlash

Coinbase Inc., one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, is letting go of staff after the backlash it faced for purchasing a company allegedly linked to the sale of spyware to oppressive regimes.

March 5
Data security

Coinbase risks user losses after buying firm with spyware ties

Coinbase, one of the best-known U.S. cryptocurrency exchanges, is facing a backlash after purchasing a company whose executives have been tied to an Italian firm accused of selling spyware to repressive governments.

March 4
Digital currencies

Startup investment bank seeks to become one-stop shop for crypto

Fincross, based on the island of Mauritius, is launching a regulated investment bank for digital assets. It faces tough competition.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent

March 4

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.