FDIC Guidance on Crypto

Learn how recent FDIC guidance enables banks to engage in crypto-related activities. This presentation will provide attendees with the practical implications of and a better understanding how to execute on the FDIC’s new guidance. By reviewing the timeline of regulatory developments and future directions, institutions can anticipate compliance needs and position themselves strategically. Additionally, the guidance reinforces safety and soundness principles, helping banks maintain strong risk management practices while preparing for future regulatory changes.

 Topics covered in this session

Overview of FDIC’s Financial Institution Letter (FIL-7-2025) dated March 28, 2025 that provides new guidance for FDIC-supervised institutions engaging or seeking to engage in crypto-related activities.

• Key changes from previous regulatory guidance
• Comparison to OCC’s similar reversal of prior guidance
• Timeline of regulatory developments and future directions

Currently Permissible Crypto-Related Activities for Banks

• Crypto-asset custody services
• Stablecoin reserve management and issuance
• Blockchain-based settlement and payment systems
• Node operation on permissioned blockchains
• Market-making and exchange services
• Limits and boundaries of permissible activities

Regulatory Expectations and Compliance Fundamentals

• Safety and soundness principles in crypto context
• Ongoing supervisory expectations
• Preparing for future guidance and regulations