Ethereum Updates Today: U.S. Paves Way for Banks to Offer Crypto Services Following Change in Blockchain Fee Regulations

The U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has released a landmark directive permitting national banks to include cryptocurrencies on their balance sheets specifically for the purpose of paying blockchain network fees. This marks a major advancement in the integration of digital assets within the traditional banking sector. The policy, detailed in Interpretive Letter No. 1186, specifies that banks are allowed to hold crypto assets like

(ETH) to pay "gas fees" necessary for blockchain transactions, . This development resolves a key operational challenge for banks aiming to provide crypto-related offerings, such as asset custody or stablecoin issuance, by allowing them to keep limited digital asset reserves for transaction purposes .

The OCC guidance states that banks should only hold the amount of crypto assets "reasonably necessary" for their business needs, including covering network fees for clients or conducting blockchain platform tests

. For example, the OCC referenced Ethereum, highlighting that transactions on this network require fees paid in . Without such reserves, banks would encounter inefficiencies, such as depending on external providers or making spot purchases to obtain the required tokens . The OCC also stressed that these operations must be conducted in a "safe and sound manner" and must adhere to all existing legal and regulatory standards .

This policy is part of a larger regulatory transformation under the Trump administration, which has focused on establishing the U.S. as a frontrunner in cryptocurrency innovation. The administration's supportive stance includes the GENIUS Act, passed in July 2025, which created the first federal regulatory structure for stablecoins and required issuers to maintain adequate cash reserves

. The OCC's directive supports these initiatives, eliminating previous uncertainties that made it difficult for banks to account for crypto-related expenses in their routine operations . The Trump administration has also reversed earlier cautions against crypto involvement and simplified regulatory oversight, creating a more favorable environment for business.

The banking sector has responded positively to the increased clarity, with leading institutions moving quickly to expand their crypto offerings. JPMorgan Chase, for instance, is growing its crypto custody collaboration with

and is preparing to accept and as collateral for loans to institutional clients . At the same time, a group of banks including Bank of America and Wells Fargo is considering launching a joint stablecoin backed by the U.S. dollar, while custodians such as BNY Mellon are building platforms for institutional cryptocurrency trading . The OCC's new rules are expected to lower operational risks and expenses, paving the way for broader adoption of blockchain technologies in the financial sector .

Nevertheless, some in the industry have responded with cautious optimism.

co-founder Charles Hoskinson cautioned that while the Trump administration's crypto-friendly approach initially appeared beneficial, the swift pace of regulatory changes could potentially hinder innovation through excessive intervention. Even so, the OCC's action highlights a crucial turning point in the U.S. financial sector's adaptation to digital assets, equipping banks to better manage the challenges of blockchain adoption .