- FDIC removes “Reputation Risk,” impacting cryptocurrency firms’ banking access.
- Regulatory change aligns with OCC’s earlier decision.
- Potential shift in bank-crypto relationships requires monitoring.


The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) announced it will remove “Reputation Risk” from its regulatory standards starting in March 2025, aligning with actions by the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
The decision could impact cryptocurrency firms’ access to banking services, as it eliminates a factor previously used to deny such access on reputational grounds.
FDIC Aligns with OCC: A Regulatory Shift for Crypto Firms
The FDIC, led by Acting Chairman Travis Hill, decided to eliminate “Reputation Risk” from regulatory standards. This shift follows the OCC’s decision by Rodney Hood under Acting Comptroller to remove it from its supervision process. Previously, Reputation Risk was used to deny banking access for various businesses, including cryptocurrency firms.
Removing this factor aims to foster clearer guidelines for banks that evaluate their relationships with cryptocurrency companies. The new framework prioritizes transparency and legal standards. Influential voices in the financial sector have noted this could change bank-exam procedures significantly.
Industry reactions have been mixed. Greg Baer, CEO of the Bank Policy Institute, expressed, “Bank exams should be transparent and grounded in objective legal standards. This marks meaningful progress in refocusing oversight on material financial risk, rather than reputational risk, operational risk, corporate governance, vendor management and other matters that do not pose a material threat to safety and soundness.” Rob Nichols, American Bankers Association President, supported the move, stating it could lessen market uncertainty for banks.
Industry Experts Weigh Impact of Removed Risk Factors
Did you know?
The OCC’s decision to remove “Reputation Risk” precedents the FDIC’s change, leading to similar shifts in regulatory practices across the industry.
The OCC had previously set a precedent by removing references to “Reputation Risk,” influencing current regulatory changes. The implications of aligning banking policies around material risks instead of reputational factors allow for a more streamlined framework.
Experts predict the removal of “Reputation Risk” could lead to a more accessible banking environment for cryptocurrency businesses. Data shows increased alignment with tangible financial metrics, potentially benefiting the operational landscape for these firms. Key industry stakeholders will monitor this regulatory shift’s effects on crypto-banking relationships over the coming months.