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.

Regulation and compliance

Barry Silbert racks up enemies as crypto-lending crisis mounts

The Digital Currency Group founder, an entrepreneur who built a career in opaque markets, is now contending with a crisis of confidence among investors suddenly panicking about risks they may not see.

January 11
M&A

Voyager cleared to sell crypto customer accounts to Binance

Voyager Digital Ltd. won court approval to sell its crypto platform to Binance.US for $20 million as part of Voyager's plan to liquidate in bankruptcy.

January 11
Industry News

Crypto exchange Coinbase to close most of Japan operations

The U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase Global is closing the bulk of its operations in Japan as part of a move to adjust international investment amid a slump in the digital-asset sector.

January 11
Regulation and compliance

Crypto meltdown leaves Winklevoss twins' Gemini 'severely tarnished'

Two months after Genesis suddenly halted withdrawals and forced Tyler and Cameron Winkelvoss to pause redemptions on Earn accounts, it's harder than ever to believe their customers will recoup the $900 million that is still stuck in limbo.

January 10
BankThink Silvergate's Home Loan bank advances are further proof of crypto contagion

Revelations that Silvergate has $4.3 billion in Home Loan bank advances highlight another conduit by which the crypto winter could spread to the broader financial system.

January 10

John Heltman

American Banker
Regulation and compliance

Bowman says Fed's crypto oversight will respect innovation

The Federal Reserve governor urged regulators not to squeeze crypto activities into non-regulated spaces. She also discussed policies for payments and Community Reinvestment Act reform.

By Kyle Campbell
Staff writer

January 10
Regulation and compliance

Silvergate Bank loaded up on $4.3 billion in Home Loan bank advances

The embattled crypto-service bank got a lifeline of liquidity in the fourth quarter of 2022 from the Federal Home Loan Bank System, raising new questions about both the Home Loan banks' purpose and crypto contagion.

By Kate Berry
Reporter

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.