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.

Embezzling

Ex-CEO of failed Kansas bank charged with embezzling $47 million

Federal prosecutors allege that Shan Hanes, the former CEO of the now defunct Heartland Tri-State Bank, illegally took money from customers to fund cryptocurrency investments. He could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

By Jim Dobbs
Deputy Editor, Community Banks

February 8
Regulation and compliance

Bank regulators say SEC rule may undermine custody banking

In correspondence with Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., the Federal Reserve and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency said the Securities and Exchange Commission's proposed safeguarding rule could change banks' custody businesses.

By Claire Williams
Reporter

February 5
Regulation and compliance

Vast Bank in Oklahoma exits the crypto market

The $1 billion-asset institution shuttered its mobile banking platform for digital asset purchases on Wednesday, following a consent order from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency received in October of last year.

By Frank Gargano
Data Reporter

February 2
Payments

How PayPal's small investment in a fintech is a big bet on its stablecoin

PayPal hopes to demonstrate its coin's utility by using it to take a stake in a company called Mesh.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

February 2
Book review One man's cynical crusade to follow the crypto money

Zeke Faux, a Bloomberg journalist, describes his two-year odyssey to better understand cryptocurrencies in his book "Number Go Up." His work proves to be an entertaining deep dive into an industry riddled with scams.

January 30

Catherine Leffert

American Banker
Fintech

Anchorage Digital to bring block trading to advisors

The San Francisco technology company is partnering with Onramp Invest to offer registered investment experts tools for facilitating larger digital asset transactions.

By Frank Gargano
Data Reporter

January 25
AB - Technology

Why spot bitcoin ETFs are unlikely to entice banks toward crypto

Comments from SEC Chair Gary Gensler and market fundamentals have created ample reason for banks to stay away from crypto, despite early bird upsides.

By Carter Pape
Technology Reporter

January 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.