OCC Greenlights Crypto Custody and Execution Services for US Banks
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has granted federally chartered banks permission to provide cryptocurrency custody and execution services, marking a watershed moment for institutional adoption. Interpretive Letter 1184 clarifies that banks may engage in digital asset activities—including third-party outsourcing—provided they implement robust risk management frameworks.
This decision effectively bridges traditional finance and decentralized ecosystems. By authorizing banks to buy, sell, and custody crypto assets on behalf of clients, the OCC creates new institutional on-ramps for capital deployment into digital markets. The move follows increasing demand from corporate treasuries and accredited investors for regulated crypto exposure.
