Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC Release Guidance on Crypto Custody for Banks

The Federal Reserve's decision enables banks to provide custody for Bitcoin and other digital assets, fostering competition with specialized crypto custodians.

BTC

Summary

The Federal Reserve has approved US banks to offer custody services for Bitcoin and other crypto assets, reducing regulatory friction and allowing banks to compete with existing custodians. This change, supported by the OCC and FDIC, enables banks to hold digital assets for customers, aligning with rising institutional demand for secure custody solutions. Banks must adhere to risk-management, cybersecurity, and fiduciary standards, as well as comply with AML and KYC regulations.

Terms & Concepts
  • AML: Anti-Money Laundering; regulations designed to prevent the generation of income through illegal actions.
  • KYC: Know Your Customer; a process of verifying the identity of clients to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
  • Custody Services: Financial services that involve safeguarding financial assets on behalf of clients.