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.

CUSOs

PSCU invests in CULedger initiative

The Florida-based CUSO is the latest to sign on with the distributed ledger technology scheme for credit unions.

By Michael Bartlett

April 25
Compliance

Iran's central bank imposes ban on cryptocurrency transactions

Iran’s central bank prohibited domestic financial institutions from handling virtual currencies, citing money-laundering concerns, as it seeks to ramp up control over the nation’s currency markets.

April 23
Blockchain

Spinoff rumors or not, JPM's blockchain unit is evolving

JPMorgan Chase is sending signals that its homegrown blockchain, Quorum, is alive and well despite a recent shake-up.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent

April 23
BankThink Bankers can't be too cautious with crypto

Financial institutions engaged in virtual currency markets face a number of risks — proceeding carefully is justified.

April 23

Marc Gottridge

Hogan Lovells
Women in Banking Citi rethinks tech branches and Santander’s blockchain first

Citibank finds people need people (at least in a branch). Santander launches a new consumer app, which makes money transfers using blockchain technology. JPMorgan Chase can be an intimidating partner for fintech startups. Plus, Elizabeth Warren’s new mission.

April 20

Tanaya Macheel
Bitcoin

Bitcoin is about to have its first back-to-back weekly gain in 2018

The increase has bought the gains over the two-week period to almost 29%.

April 20
PSO content

Cryptocurrencies are 'just candy crush' to Richard Bernstein

Cryptocurrencies are no different from the coins in your favorite online game, according to Richard Bernstein.

April 18

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.