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.

Custody banks

The case for banks to offer digital asset custody

Financial institutions that delay or fail to take this leap risk losing customers and revenue, said speakers at the inaugural On-Chain Executive Summit.

By Melinda Huspen
Tech Reporter

March 20
BankThink It's taken a while, but the future of money is here

Trading bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is fine, but it's a sideshow: Blockchain is the underlying innovation that has the potential to change the way markets operate.

March 20

Paul Vigna

American Banker
Digital Assets

Custodia's tokenized deposit to be used in 600-bank network

Participate, a loan participation network, has agreed to use tokenized dollars issued by Custodia Bank and Vantage Bank.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent

March 19
Blockchain

Inside Coinbase Institutional's ambition to bring its tech stack to banks

Brett Tejpaul, co-CEO of Coinbase Institutional, discussed how the crypto exchange plans to bring its trading infrastructure to more financial institutions.

By Joey Pizzolato
Reporter

March 19
BankThink Semiannual reporting? Hey, how about daily?

The SEC appears to be serious about moving from quarterly reporting to semiannual, but what if technology could provide a path in the other direction?

March 19

Paul Vigna

American Banker
Stablecoin

Market Intelligence Stablecoin use can help in the fight against illicit finance

Two reports out earlier this month come to very different conclusions as to the feasibility of public blockchains for finance; the differences matter for global stablecoin adoption.

By Noelle Acheson
Author, Crypto is Macro Now newsletter

March 19
Politics and policy

Sen. Lummis tempers bank expectations on yield compromise

Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., one of the most pro-crypto lawmakers in Washington, said any compromise on stablecoin yield would have to be limited to prohibiting rewards for stablecoin holdings rather than a broader ban.

By Claire Williams
Reporter

March 18

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.