- FDIC removes reputational risk from crypto banking supervision criteria.
- Improves clarity and positions to mainstream crypto involvement.
- Increases potential bank access to crypto-related services.


David Sacks, a key figure in encryption and AI for the White House, praised the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s new guidance for cryptocurrency engagement from banks announced on March 29th. This guidance is touted as a straightforward way to mainstream cryptocurrency in banking sectors.
The FDIC’s move to remove “reputational risk” from bank supervision may encourage more banks to engage in cryptocurrency. Institutional growth could reshape the market dynamics and enhance crypto’s mainstream integration.
FDIC Directive Encourages Crypto Adoption in Banking
David Sacks commented that the FDIC is making it easier for banks to engage in crypto activities, increasing the sector’s mainstream appeal. Acting Chairman Travis Hill noted the decision marks a shift from past approaches, aiming for clarity in crypto- and blockchain-related banking activities.
Immediate changes include the removal of reputational risk as a supervision criterion, which potentially opens the door for more institutional engagement. Banks can now participate in crypto activities without prior approval, allowing them to explore crypto opportunities more freely.
Market reactions see positive responses from various sectors, with leaders like Bo Hines identifying this as a “huge step” toward innovation. Sacks, highlighting the regulatory easing by the FDIC, sees this as a pivotal moment for the integration of crypto in financial systems.
“Big win for crypto: @FDICgov is following @USOCC’s lead in removing ‘reputational risk’ as a factor in bank supervision. In practice, this vague and subjective criteria was used to justify the debanking of lawful crypto businesses through Operation Chokepoint 2.0.” ** – David Sacks, White House Director of Encryption and AI
Historic Shift as FDIC Aligns with OCC on Crypto
Did you know? The removal follows a precedent set by the OCC, aiming to reduce barriers for lawful crypto businesses, comparable to earlier changes by financial institutions seeking innovation pathways.
Historically, banks have been wary of crypto due to regulatory ambiguities. The FDIC’s new guidance follows the OCC’s example, likely increasing confidence in crypto collaborations. This decision aligns with ongoing trends of incorporating digital assets into traditional financial sectors.
Experts believe the regulatory easing could result in increased institutional investment in crypto, potentially stabilizing and legitimizing the sector further. Analysts argue this may signify a shift in regulatory attitudes towards embracing technological advancements that digital assets offer.