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

A bogus bank, CFPB in flux, and a Super Bowl moment: Top stories of the week

The quick fall of AriseBank, a would-be blockchain bank; a CFPB buffeted by court rulings and policy shifts; U.S. Bancorp's Super Bowl play; and more.

February 2
Bitcoin

JPMorgan, Bank of America ban crypto purchases with credit cards

The nation’s two largest banks don't want the credit risk associated with the transactions.

February 2
Blockchain

Long Blockchain backs off bitcoin mining as cryptocurrency falls

Long Blockchain Corp. is taking a step back from crypto — only about six weeks after it got into it.

February 2
Digital banking

'It's been rotting for years': Comments of the week

Readers react to a clash between Mick Mulvaney and Richard Cordray, opine on how quickly Congress can move financial services legislation, slam calls for increased bank consolidation and more.

By Mary Wisniewski
Deputy editor

February 1
Bitcoin

Crypto purchases boosting Mastercard customer spending

Mastercard Inc. doesn’t traffic in cryptocurrencies, but it’s benefiting from them just the same.

February 1
Digital currencies

CFTC subpoenas add to fears of an unsustainable crypto bubble

Regulatory scrutiny of Tether and Bitfinex is spooking investors, though others argue the industry remains strong.

By Brian Patrick Eha

January 31
BankThink Asia's blazing a trail for contactless and cryptocurrency

While there's lots of fintech innovation globally, some of the most exciting moves are coming from China, Japan and South Korea, writes John Mitchell, CEO of Episode Six.

January 30

John Mitchell

Episode Six

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.