Office of the Comptroller of the Currency: 9 major U.S. banks have implemented "de-banking" measures against the cryptocurrency industry
According to Cointelegraph, the preliminary investigation results from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) show that the nine largest banks in the United States imposed restrictions on financial services for politically sensitive industries, including cryptocurrencies, between 2020 and 2023.The OCC stated that these banks made improper distinctions based on the legitimate business activities of their clients, either implementing policies that restrict access to banking services or requiring enhanced scrutiny and approval before providing financial services. The restricted industries, in addition to cryptocurrencies, include oil and gas exploration, coal mining, firearms, private prisons, tobacco and e-cigarette manufacturers, and the adult entertainment industry.For the cryptocurrency industry, the banks' restrictions involve issuers, exchanges, or managers, often attributed to concerns about financial crimes. The banks under scrutiny include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, Wells Fargo, Capital One, PNC Bank, TD Bank, and BMO Bank. The OCC stated that it will continue its investigation and may submit the findings to the Department of Justice.