### Interpretation of the news:
Main news: In a significant development that marks a historical step towards integrating digital currencies into the traditional financial system, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) – the primary regulatory body for national banks in the United States – today (December 9, 2025) announced new guidelines allowing US banks to act as intermediaries in digital currency transactions, including buying and selling Bitcoin on behalf of their customers. This announcement comes as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to enhance America's role as a global hub for digital currencies, signaling the end of years of stringent restrictions imposed by the previous administration.
Key details of the guidelines:
- 'Riskless Principal Transactions': Banks are allowed to instantly buy Bitcoin or other digital assets from a seller and then sell them immediately to another customer, without holding the assets on their balance sheet (except in very rare cases). This makes banks 'intermediaries' or 'trading desks' for digital currencies, facilitating customer access to these assets within traditional banking apps.
- No need for prior approval: Unlike before, this type of activity will not be subject to additional scrutiny from the OCC, provided that banks follow standard risk management procedures, such as protection against cyber crimes and compliance with laws.
- The broader context: This announcement builds on previous decisions in 2025, such as allowing banks to hold certain digital currencies (like BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP) to pay network fees (Gas Fees), and offering custody services to customers, in addition to removing Federal Reserve restrictions that required prior notification for any crypto-related activity.
Immediate impact:
- For investors and customers: millions of customers will be able to buy and hold Bitcoin directly through their bank accounts, making investment in it safer and easier compared to unregulated digital platforms like Binance or Coinbase. For example, SoFi Bank launched a crypto trading service for its customers last week, and major banks like Charles Schwab and Morgan Stanley are expected to follow soon.
- On Bitcoin prices: The price of Bitcoin saw an immediate increase of up to 5% after the announcement, as it is seen as a positive signal for institutional adoption, potentially driving the price towards new levels above $100,000.
- On the global market: This decision enhances the status of the US dollar in the crypto world, especially with Trump's plans to create a national Bitcoin reserve, pressuring other countries (like the European Union) to accelerate their regulations.
Background and political shift:
During the Biden administration, regulators were cautious towards crypto due to concerns over volatility, fraud, and systemic risks, leading to a 'Choke Point 2.0' where banks refused to deal with digital companies. But with Trump's return, these restrictions have been gradually lifted, including issuing executive orders to support 'America as the global crypto capital.' This announcement today is the latest step in this direction and is expected to be met with protests from critics warning of increased interconnection between the traditional financial system and volatile crypto, which could expose the economy to potential shocks.
Summary: This news is not just a regulatory permission, but a gateway to a new era where Bitcoin becomes an essential part of everyday banking services. If implemented effectively, it could lead to a massive influx of capital into the digital market, but it also requires caution against risks. If you are an investor, this is a perfect moment to monitor upcoming banking movements – the financial revolution has truly begun!
