Open Bank Account for a Crypto Broker: 2026 Guide

The banking landscape for crypto brokers has fundamentally changed in 2026. Unlike exchanges that hold massive custody risk, brokers are now seen by regulators as "intermediaries," allowing for more streamlined banking access—provided they follow the new rules of the game.

The "Riskless Principal" Shift
A major breakthrough in late 2025 was the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) clarifying that national banks can act as crypto brokers under a "riskless principal" model. This means banks are now more comfortable onboarding crypto brokers who match buy and sell orders without holding volatile inventory. For your brokerage, adopting this model can be the key to unlocking Tier-1 banking partners like Chase, Ally, or specialist EMIs.​

MiCA: The European Advantage
In the EU, the full implementation of MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) has created a clear path for brokers. Licensed investment firms can now offer crypto services without a separate CASP license if they notify regulators. This has led to a boom in "hybrid" brokers who combine traditional assets and crypto in one segregated banking structure.​
Banks now favor brokers who use segregated accounts (safeguarding client funds separate from company money), a non-negotiable requirement under MiCA and FCA rules for 2026.​

What You Need to Open an Account
To get approved in 2026, your brokerage needs to present:

- Execution Policy: Documenting how you route orders (STP, OTC, or riskless principal) to prove you aren't running an unauthorized exchange.

- Tax Compliance Stack: Integration for IRS Form 1099-DA (for US clients) and DAC8 (for EU clients), which becomes mandatory for gross proceeds reporting in 2026.

- Segregated IBAN Structure: A banking setup where client deposits go directly to a safeguarded account, not your operating balance.

Broker vs. Exchange Banking
Research shows that in 2026, brokers face lower compliance costs than exchanges but must handle higher transaction reporting frequency. Choosing a bank that supports high-volume API payments (like Revolut Business or specialized fintechs) is crucial for efficient settlement.