"Crypto Week" has begun in full swing, and the first bombshell came from the US financial tracking giants. Following the US House of Representatives' declaration of "Crypto Week" for the week of July 14-18, the #US Federal Reserve (#Fed ), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) issued a historic joint statement regarding cryptocurrencies, directly affecting banks. According to the statement, banks can now offer cryptocurrency custody services, but they must comply with strict regulations.
🧾 Summary of the Statement: Banks Have Authority, But Not Unlimited
The statements were clearly stated:
📌 No new regulations have been established.
📌 Banks may provide crypto custody services subject to compliance with existing legal regulations and risk management principles.
📌 In particular, the security of crypto keys, protection against cyber threats, and the integrity of customer assets will be the primary responsibilities of banks.
🔐 Cryptographic Keys and Liability
Banks are required to maintain the highest level of private key usage when storing digital assets.
⚠️ They will be held directly responsible in the event of key loss, unauthorized access, or cyberattacks.
🛡️ Cybersecurity and Requirement of Expert Staff
Storing digital storage is not only a physical infrastructure but also a critical cyber defense system.
Banks are required to pay special attention to the following:
✔️ Development of technological infrastructure
✔️ Development of cybersecurity protocols
✔️ Existing staff specialized in the crypto space
✔️ Strict control of key management and encryption protocols
🏦 Use of Sub-Custody is Free, but Risky
Banks are permitted to transfer cryptocurrency custodianships to external entities (sub-custodians). However:
A risk assessment is required to summarize this information.
The parent bank will still be responsible for the activities of sub-custody operations.
⚖️ AML, CFT, and OFAC Compliance Required
Regarding companies providing crypto custody services:
Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT)
Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)
…those who failed to comply with regulations were brought to justice. It was also reported that the customer agreement should be clear and detailed, and the roles and responsibilities between the user and the bank should be clearly stated.
🔍 Internal Audit and External Auditor Requirement
The final section of the statement addressed the development of internal audit mechanisms for operations. It recommended collaborating with independent auditing institutions when necessary. The goal is to ensure the safe protection of customer assets and prevent potential legal violations.
📊 What the Industry Says
Initial reactions from the crypto industry have been quite positive. This statement is being considered a signal that the US has officially launched the process of integrating cryptocurrencies into the financial system.
Many experts predict that this step will pave the way for large institutional investments to enter the crypto markets and mobilize traditional capital, which has been held back by the lack of "trusted custody."
🧠 Conclusion: Crypto Is Now Official
"Crypto Week" has reached a historic level with the comprehensive announcement of the first large central bank, insurance institution, and regulatory body. The designation of US banks as "crypto custodians" is the strongest indicator of a potential status within the digital financial system by 2025.
📈 This step will both increase the confidence of crypto investors and attract greater capital into the space. Now, not only private exchanges but also licensed ones will be holding crypto.