According to the Financial Times, JPMorgan crypto-backed loans might soon be launched, as the bank takes a bigger step into the world of digital assets. The move, which could go into effect as early as next year, would allow clients to secure loans using cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and ether as security.
While JPMorgan already permits borrowing against crypto ETFs such as BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, this new move would show a stronger commitment to crypto, which is an unexpected shift from a bank whose CEO once dismissed bitcoin as a “fraud.”
Even though JPMorgan has usually been careful with crypto, it is now looking into giving loans directly backed by cryptocurrencies. This shows a bigger change happening on Wall Street as rules around digital assets begin to shift.
Why Is JPMorgan Pushing for Crypto-Backed Loans Now?
The push for JPMorgan crypto-backed loans is happening as crypto rules become clearer under the Trump administration.

New changes, like the passing of the GENIUS Act, have created a friendlier environment for banks and companies interested in stablecoins and digital tokens.
A source familiar with JPMorgan’s strategy said this is the right moment to explore new financial products, now that regulations are clearer.
With the GENIUS Act gaining strong support from big banks, JPMorgan is moving carefully but quickly to make the most of the changing landscape.
What Will These Loans Look Like?
Unlike the current system, where clients can borrow using crypto ETFs, the planned JPMorgan crypto-backed loans would let customers use their actual digital assets like bitcoin and ether as collateral. This means they could take out loans in cash while still holding on to their crypto, without needing to sell it.
Still, there are technical issues to solve. For example, if someone fails to repay their loan, it’s not yet clear how the bank would take control of or sell off their crypto in a legal and secure way. Reports say JPMorgan is putting together a special team to figure out how to manage and handle these situations.
Feature | Details (as reported) |
Launch Timeline | 2026 (possible) |
Collateral Assets | Bitcoin, Ethereum |
Target Clients | Institutional, high-net-worth |
Loan Structure | USD loans secured by crypto |
Regulatory Context | U.S. regulations evolving (CLARITY Act) |
Bank’s Crypto Stance | CEO skeptical, but business adapting |
How Has Jamie Dimon’s Stance on Crypto Changed?
Jamie Dimon, JPMorgan’s CEO, was once a strong critic of cryptocurrencies, even saying he’d fire any trader dealing with them. But his views have changed over time.
Although he still raises concerns about risks like misuse and volatility, Dimon recently admitted that “stablecoins are real” and confirmed that JPMorgan plans to take part in building systems for deposit tokens and stablecoins
Jamie Dimon made it clear that while JPMorgan will let clients purchase cryptocurrencies, it won’t handle or store them on their behalf.
Speaking to investors, he emphasized that the bank has no plans to offer custody services. Still, the development of JPMorgan crypto-backed loans shows the bank is moving further into the crypto world, even if with some limits.
How Will JPMorgan Compete with Other Banks in the Crypto Space?
JPMorgan isn’t the only big name moving toward crypto. Banks like Bank of America and Citibank are also looking into stablecoins and other digital asset services.

However, the launch of JPMorgan crypto-backed loans could give it a strong advantage, especially when it comes to serving high-net-worth clients in the wealth management sector.
JPMorgan currently limits its crypto ETF lending to wealthy clients, and this rule will likely stay in place for the upcoming JPMorgan crypto-backed loans. This careful move shows how the bank is trying to balance new opportunities in crypto with proper risk control.
Experts say that while JPMorgan doesn’t plan to turn into a fully crypto-based bank, it’s placing itself ahead of other traditional banks that are only beginning to explore digital assets.
Conclusion
Based on the latest research, JPMorgan crypto-backed loans could become a major step in linking traditional banking with the growing crypto world. Even though CEO Jamie Dimon still questions some parts of the crypto space, the bank’s latest moves show it is slowly and carefully becoming more open to digital assets.
By giving direct loans backed by bitcoin and ether, JPMorgan might not just join other U.S. banks in the crypto space, it could actually lead the way. With clearer and stronger rules now in place, the bank seems prepared to move forward carefully but confidently.
Summary
JPMorgan plans to start crypto-backed loans by 2026, letting clients use bitcoin and ether to get cash without selling them. This is a big change for the bank, especially since CEO Jamie Dimon was once very against crypto.
The decision comes after new U.S. rules, like the GENIUS Act, made it easier and safer for banks to work with digital assets.
Explore how JPMorgan crypto-backed loans could reshape U.S. banking with bitcoin and ether at the center of innovation.
FAQs
1. When will JPMorgan crypto-backed loans start?
They may launch by 2026.
2. What crypto can be used as collateral?
Bitcoin and Ethereum are likely options.
3. Will clients need to sell their crypto?
No, they can keep their crypto and still borrow cash.
4. Has Jamie Dimon changed his view on crypto?
Yes, he’s still cautious but sees value in stablecoins.
5. Why is JPMorgan doing this now?
New U.S. rules like the GENIUS Act have made it safer.
Glossary
Crypto-Backed Loan– A loan where Bitcoin or Ethereum is pledged to borrow fiat.
High-Net-Worth Individual – Someone with large financial assets, often served through exclusive banking and investment services.
Collateral – An asset used to back a loan. In crypto loans, coins like Bitcoin or Ethereum serve this role.