By Jennifer Mathews
- Major U.S. banks are expanding crypto operations as regulators like the SEC and OCC ease restrictions
- Analysts predict banks will invest over $2.3B into crypto infrastructure by 2025
In a bold move that underscores just how quick the financial tides are turning, central U.S. banks are ramping up their crypto operations as regulatory bodies ease longstanding restrictions. With the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) softening their stance, banks are moving quickly to stake their claim in the crypto market, which was once seen too risky for traditional institutions.
Why This Matters: Let’s keep it real: traditional banking hasn’t always been our friend. Black and Brown communities historically face discriminatory lending practices and unequal access to wealth-building opportunities. Cryptocurrency, while volatile—Bitcoin alone remains down 42% from its all-time high—offers a disruptive potential to level some of these historic inequalities. As major financial institutions plan to invest $2.3 billion into crypto infrastructure in 2025, it finally signals that crypto isn’t a novel concept—it’s vital to staying competitive.
Over 75% of banks believe enhancing their digital asset strategy is crucial, and they’re not wrong. Customer demand for digital assets is growing and Fintech and crypto-native companies are competing with banks. Fintech companies have redefined the financial landscape and are more inclusive than traditional banks. Staying out of crypto could mean missing out on new revenue streams or being left behind.
Situational Awareness: With big banks stepping into crypto, our communities have a unique opportunity—one we shouldn’t sleep on this cycle. Investors can push these institutions to ensure investments in crypt are inclusive and not just lucrative. The transition could also mean more financial access and greater economic empowerment, but only if we advocate for transparency, and genuine inclusion. As banks build their crypto capacities, Black and Brown communities have to demand a seat at the table—because this shift is about more than finance; it’s about finally getting a fair shake in building lasting wealth.
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