Ethereum Updates Today: U.S. Banks Granted Permission to Store Crypto, Boosting Nation’s Role as Leading Digital Asset Center

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Bitget-RWA2025/11/19 00:52

By:Bitget-RWA

- U.S. banks can now hold crypto on balance sheets to pay blockchain fees, per OCC guidance, advancing digital asset integration. - The rule allows testing crypto platforms and holding tokens like ETH to reduce counterparty risks and streamline blockchain operations. - Trump-era policies position the U.S. as a crypto hub, with banks preparing to launch custody services and stablecoins under relaxed regulations. - Institutions must comply with safety standards, maintaining crypto holdings proportionate to c

The U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has confirmed that national

banks

are permitted to hold cryptocurrencies on their balance sheets for the purpose of paying blockchain network fees, representing a notable advancement in the integration of digital assets within the banking sector. Interpretive Letter 1186, which details this guidance, specifies that banks may possess crypto assets "as principal" to settle transaction fees—commonly called "gas fees"—on blockchain platforms,

as long as these activities are incidental to authorized banking operations

The OCC further stated that this permission includes holding crypto for testing digital asset platforms,

regardless of whether these platforms are developed in-house or sourced from external providers

. The agency referenced

Ethereum

as an illustration, explaining that transactions on the network require

ETH

for execution, and

pointed out the operational risks and expenses

that come with depending on third-party services for such payments. By allowing banks to keep modest amounts of native tokens like ETH,

the OCC seeks to lower counterparty risk

and enhance efficiency in blockchain-related services.

This policy is consistent with broader regulatory changes introduced during the Trump administration, which aimed to establish the U.S. as a leader in the crypto industry. Earlier this year, the OCC withdrew restrictive policies from the Biden era that had required banks to obtain prior approval for engaging in crypto activities. Banks are now also allowed to provide crypto custody services and participate in stablecoin projects under the newly passed GENIUS Act

according to reports

. The updated guidance further supports these initiatives, allowing banks to handle digital asset-related expenses as part of their routine business

as reported

Ethereum Updates Today: U.S. Banks Granted Permission to Store Crypto, Boosting Nation’s Role as Leading Digital Asset Center image 0

Industry analysts believe this decision will drive greater institutional involvement. Leading banks such as

JPMorgan Chase

and

Bank of America

, are reportedly preparing to introduce crypto custody offerings and launch dollar-pegged stablecoins

as reported

. The OCC’s approach also tackles practical issues,

including the necessity for banks to hold tokens

for trade settlements or for testing distributed ledger technologies.

Nonetheless, the agency made it clear that banks must carry out these activities "in a safe and sound manner and in compliance with applicable law," highlighting persistent risks such as market fluctuations, cybersecurity threats, and liquidity concerns

as emphasized

. The volume of crypto held should be appropriate relative to the bank’s capital,

indicating a cautious approach to innovation

As lawmakers continue to draft federal regulations for digital assets—including a proposed bill on market structure—

the OCC’s guidance offers immediate direction

to banks as they adapt to the changing environment. This move could speed up the adoption of blockchain technology in mainstream banking,

helping to connect traditional finance with the crypto world

Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.

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