OCC Authorizes Banks to Conduct Crypto Trading Activities
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has issued new guidance permitting traditional banks to execute riskless principal transactions involving crypto assets. The December 9 letter marks a significant shift in regulatory stance toward digital asset integration within the conventional banking sector.
The directive enables financial institutions to act as intermediaries in cryptocurrency trades without holding the assets on their balance sheets. Banks can now facilitate matched transactions between customers and counterparties, eliminating direct exposure to crypto volatility while expanding service offerings.
Regulatory Reversal Signals Industry Maturation
The OCC’s latest position represents a departure from its cautious approach…
