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.

Digital banking

Starbucks' mobile app criticized; Apple Pay adds payment tech firm

In the news this week: A consumer group filed a complaint against Starbucks over its mobile app and reloadable gift cards, Apple Pay added a new payment tech firm, The Clearing House hired Amanda Stewart as its new marketing chief, and more.

By Editorial Staff

January 5
BankThink We need to introduce more 'friction' in cryptocurrency transactions

The use of digital wallets to finance the Hamas attack on Israel highlights the need for tighter controls on the transfer of cryptocurrencies.

January 5

Matthew Leaney

Silent Eight
BankThink Acting Comptroller Hsu misses the point of decentralized tokenization

When you centralize a blockchain, you lose much of its inherent value. Acting Comptroller Michael Hsu's support for centralized tokenization betrays a misunderstanding of the value of decentralization.

January 3

Ram Ahluwalia

Lumida Wealth Management
Payments

German cash use slips, India pressures crypto exchanges

Germany, traditionally a cash-heavy economy, is seeing a rise in debit card use. Meanwhile, Indian regulators accuse several crypto exchanges of violating anti-money-laundering rules.

By Kate Fitzgerald, John Adams and Bloomberg News

January 3
BankThink Spot bitcoin ETFs are coming, but not as soon as their advocates think

Before a spot bitcoin ETF is approved, we're going to need to see much more clarity about how applicants draw the line between custody and trading.

January 1

Steve Scott

BitGo
Payments

Who will drive stablecoin innovation in 2024?

Projects are underway at a number of payment firms including PayPal, Circle and Ripple. Location and regulation will also play a big role in what the market looks like in the next year.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

December 29
Payments

HSBC funds digital identity fintech; Mastercard expands carbon gauge

India softens stance on payment regs; a Dutch neobank turns to gen AI; and more.

By John Adams and Bloomberg News

December 27

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.