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

WEX's blockchain philosophy: Innovation first, products second

The fleet card provider WEX isn't sure how blockchain can help its business, but it's confident enough in the technology's promise to move forward.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

January 25
Bank technology

Banks should slow down to get blockchain right

Bank consortium R3 CEV, one of the most well-funded blockchain working groups, has endured criticism for its meticulous process. But if blockchains are most valuable with a network effect, maybe forgoing some agility is worth the long while.

By Tanaya Macheel
Reporter

January 20
Mobile wallets

Ant sees blockchain as a path to 2 billion users

The parent of Alipay is also investigating uses for biometrics and artificial intelligence.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

January 20
Fintech

HSBC turns to tech execs for guidance

HSBC has formed an advisory board to guide it on fintech, cybersecurity and IT infrastructure issues.

By Tanaya Macheel
Reporter

January 17
Distributed ledger technology

Deloitte opens blockchain lab in New York to push for working prototypes

The goal of Deloitte's new blockchain-focused lab in New York is to turn proofs of concepts into real solutions.

By Brian Patrick Eha

January 12
Technology

Mission 2017: shoring up tech defenses

Credit union technology executives and analysts suggest the industry must collaborate to work on three primary areas: cybersecurity, data and business intelligence and digital-first strategies.

By Palash Ghosh

January 12
Cross border payments

India’s Axis Bank partners with Ripple for blockchain transfers

Axis Bank, one of India’s largest private-sector financial institutions, has reportedly become the first bank in the country to partner with Ripple for a blockchain-powered approach to cross-border payment.

By Kate Fitzgerald
Senior Editor, Payments

January 12

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.