OCC Permits U.S. National Banks to Hold Cryptocurrency for Blockchain Transaction Fees

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued Interpretive Letter 1186 on November 18, 2025, allowing national banks to hold native cryptocurrency assets specifically for paying blockchain network fees. Banks may maintain tokens such as ETH when required for operational activities including transaction validation and custody services. The guidance aims to reduce reliance on third-party fee payment providers and streamline blockchain-related banking operations.