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

Vibrant Credit Union in Illinois explores a blockchain-based future

The $1.1 billion-asset Vibrant is working with the San Francisco-based distributed ledger development firm Metallicus through its Metal Blockchain Banking Innovation Program to examine use cases.

By Frank Gargano
Data Reporter

May 6
Regulation and compliance

SEC warns Robinhood that its crypto business faces lawsuit

The Securities and Exchange Commission has warned Robinhood Markets that it faces an enforcement action over its crypto business — the latest sign that the regulator isn't letting up on its yearslong crackdown on digital assets.

May 6
Industry News

Renasant taps insider as next CEO, Aspiration spins out new brand

Mississippi's Renasant names its next CEO; environmental fintech Aspiration Partners spins out its consumer brand; the OCC adds five weeks to comment period for Capital One-Discover merger; and more in the weekly banking news roundup.

By Editorial Staff

April 26
Fintech

Anchorage Digital debuts crypto settlement network

The San Francisco-based firm's Anchorage Digital Trusted Liquidity and Settlement network, better known as Atlas, will allow clients to settle a range of cryptocurrency transactions.

By Frank Gargano
Data Reporter

April 25
Payments

Mastercard using open banking to spot fraud, EU warms to Apple Pay policy

Mastercard launches service to fight instant-payment fraud, EU may green-light Apple's NFC-access plan, and more.

By Kate Fitzgerald and Bloomberg News

April 24
Regulation and compliance

Sen. Warren calls for increased safeguards in stablecoin legislation

In a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen last week, the Massachusetts senator highlighted the growing use of cryptocurrencies by malicious organizations abroad and underscored the need for anti-money-laundering and counterterrorism provisions in future proposals.

By Frank Gargano
Data Reporter

April 23
Regulation and compliance

Two SEC lawyers resign after agency censured for abuse of power in crypto case

Two Securities and Exchange Commission lawyers stepped down this month after a federal judge sanctioned and sharply rebuked the Wall Street regulator for "gross abuse" of power in a crypto case.

April 22

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.