U.S. Banks Face Scrutiny Over Crypto Sector Restrictions

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency reported that from 2020 to 2023, the largest U.S. banks restricted financial services to politically sensitive industries, including cryptocurrencies, spurring continued investigation.

Amid regulatory scrutiny, these constraints could drive cryptocurrency firms towards alternative financial infrastructures, highlighting ongoing tensions between traditional finance and digital asset sectors.

Market Reactions and Potential DOJ Involvement

According to OCC findings from 2020 to 2023, nine U.S. banks, such as JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America, were implementing restrictions on sectors deemed controversial, particularly cryptocurrency. These banks reportedly used improper criteria for service denial.

Changes in banking policies are expected, with the OCC potentially submitting findings to the Department of Justice for further action. This scrutiny could lead to significant regulatory shifts affecting sector access to financial services.

“The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today confirmed permissible bank activities related to paying crypto-asset network fees.”

Market Insights and Future Predictions

Did you know? In 2018, a similar OCC investigation led to policy changes, highlighting systemic biases in banking access for controversial industries.

According to CoinMarketCap, Bitcoin (BTC) priced at $90,296.49, holds a market cap of $1,802,366,148,157.53 with 58.58% dominance. It recently saw declines of 2.56% over 24 hours and 21.72% over 90 days. Trading volume reached $70,686,185,655.61, updated December 11, 2025.

Insights from Coincu indicate that revised access restrictions could lead to increased use of alternative payment systems. This may enhance crypto’s role in financial ecosystems, especially amid shifting regulatory landscapes.