Catenaa, Thursday, May 08, 2026- The US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has authorized national banks to buy and sell cryptocurrencies on behalf of their customers, according to a policy clarification issued Wednesday.
The OCC also said banks may outsource crypto custody and trade execution to third parties, provided proper risk controls are in place.
This move reverses a 2021 requirement that banks obtain regulatory approval before engaging in crypto-related activities.
It reaffirms the OCC’s earlier 2020 stance allowing crypto custody services and follows a wave of pro-crypto regulatory shifts under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Last month, the Federal Reserve rescinded its 2022 guidance mandating pre-approval for stablecoin and crypto activity. The FDIC also withdrew earlier restrictions, enabling banks to conduct permissible crypto operations without seeking agency clearance.
Regulators say the changes aim to foster innovation while ensuring responsible risk oversight. Analysts believe the green light could accelerate institutional participation and mainstream adoption of digital assets.
The OCC’s updated position signals a broader regulatory realignment, creating a more permissive environment for banks to engage with the crypto market.
