Breaking Banking Boundaries: SoFi Launches Crypto Trading for US Bank Customers

In a groundbreaking move within US financial technology, SoFi Technologies, Inc. (“SoFi”) has announced the launch of SoFi Crypto, becoming the first nationally-chartered bank to offer crypto trading services to retail customers. This development allows users to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL) directly within their bank accounts, eliminating the need to rely on separate crypto exchanges.

Introduction: Banks Meet Crypto

Traditionally, banking services focus on deposits, loans, and standard investments, while cryptocurrencies have been considered the domain of fintech innovators. SoFi’s integration of crypto trading directly into its banking platform represents a key milestone: customers can manage both fiat and digital assets in one place. For many, this is the first opportunity to “buy crypto at a bank,” signaling crypto’s entry into mainstream finance.

Why SoFi Is Leading the Charge

SoFi boasts over 12.6 million members as of 2025. The company previously partnered with Coinbase to offer crypto trading but paused in 2023 to focus on obtaining its national bank charter. With approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency in 2022, SoFi now uniquely combines traditional banking and fintech expertise. The current regulatory climate also encourages banks to explore crypto services, making SoFi’s timing strategic.

SoFi Crypto: Features and Services

Key highlights of the SoFi Crypto service include:

• Integrated platform: Users can buy, sell, and hold crypto directly using their SoFi bank accounts.

• Bank-level compliance: Security and regulatory compliance are emphasized, though crypto holdings are not covered by FDIC or SIPC insurance.

• Supported assets: Initially BTC, ETH, SOL, with plans to expand supported cryptocurrencies.

• Phased rollout: The service is first available to a subset of members, with full rollout in coming weeks.

Market Context and Regulatory Environment

The launch is supported by several factors:

• Growing crypto adoption: SoFi reports that 60% of its members holding crypto prefer managing assets via a regulated bank rather than an exchange.

• Regulatory clarity: US regulators have provided guidance allowing banks to offer crypto services under strict compliance measures.

• Competitive pressure: With fintechs and traditional banks exploring crypto, SoFi’s early move could establish a benchmark for others.

What This Means for Users: Opportunities and Risks

Opportunities:

• Convenience: Users can trade crypto without transferring funds to separate exchanges.

• Trust: Banking oversight may reassure new users concerned about exchange security.

• Accessibility: Reduces barriers for mainstream adoption of digital assets.

Risks:

• Crypto remains highly volatile and can lose value rapidly.

• Holdings are not insured by FDIC or SIPC.

• Initial asset selection and liquidity may be limited.

Users should assess risk tolerance carefully and start with small amounts.

Conclusion: The Future of Banking Meets Crypto

SoFi Crypto marks the beginning of a new era where banking and cryptocurrency converge. While offering convenience and trust, users must remain cautious due to inherent crypto risks. This launch may prompt other banks to adopt similar services, potentially accelerating mainstream adoption of digital assets. As banking and blockchain integration deepens, financial services could become more holistic, blending traditional and digital asset management seamlessly.

Disclaimer:

This is not investment advice. This information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any asset. Cryptocurrency trading involves a risk of loss. Gate US services may be restricted in certain jurisdictions. For more information, please see our legal disclosures: https://us.gate.com/legal/disclosures