OCC Calls for Stronger Financial Literacy on Crypto
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the federal agency responsible for overseeing national banks and federal savings associations, has taken steps to clarify the regulatory framework around digital assets in the U.S. banking system. Acting Comptroller Rodney E. Hood, speaking at the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) on May 29, 2025, highlighted the increasing importance of cryptocurrency and digital assets in financial services.
“Everyone in the financial ecosystem – including financial educators – should carefully monitor the rapidly changing financial marketplace and update financial education strategies accordingly. For example, in 2023, almost 5 percent of all households owned or used cryptocurrency, with more than nine in 10 of those holding it as an investment,” Hood said, adding:
Given the level of interest, expanding financial literacy resources to address digital asset investments may be useful.
Hood’s comments reflect the OCC’s role in ensuring that banks can engage with digital assets in a regulated and secure manner.
The Acting Comptroller of the Currency also discussed the need for financial educators to update their strategies to address the growing number of consumers engaging with digital assets, many of whom are first-time investors. He suggested that financial literacy programs should help these new investors understand the risks and opportunities of digital assets. The OCC has long supported financial education, and Hood emphasized that these efforts should now include resources on emerging financial products like cryptocurrency.
This approach aligns with the OCC’s recent guidance, released in May, which confirmed that national banks and federal savings associations are authorized to provide cryptocurrency-related services, such as custody and execution, as long as proper risk management practices are in place. “The federal banking system is well positioned to engage in digital asset activities,” the OCC recently said. The OCC’s position shows a cautious but supportive approach to integrating digital assets into the banking system, while also stressing the importance of consumer education and safety.
