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.

BankThink A strategic bitcoin reserve raises real national security concerns

China currently dominates the market for the hardware and software used to mine cryptocurrency. Creating a large federal reserve would expose a major U.S. asset to potential Chinese meddling.

January 22

Alison Jimenez
Regulation and compliance

Trump admin may wash hands of some of SEC's last-minute enforcement flurry

The avalanche of cases announced Friday included charges against a no-longer registered advisor and firm accused of misappropriating more than $20 million from clients.

By Dan Shaw
Reporter

January 21
Trump administration

Trump's day one: Fire Chopra, reset CFPB, elevate crypto

A one-page outline of priorities for Trump's inauguration day obtained American Banker includes financial policy items, including firing Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Rohit Chopra, issuing a "reset" of that agency and designating crypto as a "national priority."

By Kate Berry
Reporter

January 20
Payments

JPMorgan's brawl with Greek tycoon races toward a climax

The bank, which owns a minority stake in Viva Wallet, can take over the company in June if its valuation falls before a certain level — which has resulted in a legal dispute with Haris Karonis, the fintech's owner. That and more in American Banker's weekly global payments roundup.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

January 16
BankThink National banks must continue exercising caution with cryptocurrencies

It's no accident that national banks have, so far, been insulated from major crypto disasters. Congress and the incoming administration should take heed and avoid eliminating the guardrails that have kept banks safe.

January 16

Michael J. Hsu
Fintech

Fintech and crypto are having a moment in the 119th Congress

Leadership appointments and an influx of new crypto-friendly lawmakers suggest the 119th Congress could be the most fintech and crypto-friendly in years.

By Claire Williams
Reporter

January 14
Women in Payments

Top payments execs on how to manage tech buzz

Honorees from American Banker's Most Influential Women in Payments discuss spotting tangible uses for innovation, rather than buying into hype.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

January 10

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.