US Banks Are Quietly Embracing Bitcoin, Michael Saylor Says
Michael Saylor, a prominent figure in bitcoin, reveals a silent revolution: the largest American banks now integrate bitcoin-backed loans. A massive adoption that could redefine traditional finance. What are the key figures, macroeconomic implications, and what is the future for bitcoin facing global monetary policies?
In Brief
- The 8 largest American banks now offer loans secured by bitcoin, according to Michael Saylor.
- Interest rates (4-6%) and LTV ratios (50-70%) are more advantageous than those of DeFi, marking a historic turning point for institutional bitcoin adoption.
- The Fed’s rate cuts and upcoming rate hikes in Japan could enhance bitcoin’s appeal as a major financial asset.
Eight of the ten largest American banks now integrate bitcoin-backed loans
In a recent statement, Michael Saylor states that eight of the ten largest American banks , including Citibank, Bank of America, JPMorgan, and Wells Fargo, now offer loans secured by bitcoin. Crypto loan volumes reached $150 billion annually in Q4 2025, with 40% of the market captured by traditional banks, versus 60% for DeFi protocols.
Furthermore, Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios range between 50% and 70%, with interest rates between 4% and 6%, well below DeFi alternatives. JPMorgan even launched a $10 billion credit facility secured by bitcoin in October 2025. Saylor highlights a rapid transition. According to him, banks went from total hostility towards bitcoin to massive adoption in less than a year. This trend reflects growing recognition of BTC as a legitimate financial asset, marking a historic turning point for crypto.
The Fed cuts rates again: a catalyst for bitcoin loan adoption?
On December 10, 2025, the US Federal Reserve (Fed) cut interest rates again , despite uncertain economic data. This decision could stimulate banks’ appetite for risky assets like bitcoin by lowering the cost of credit and encouraging financial innovation. Indeed, low rates favor investment in alternative assets, thus offering banks new growth opportunities.
However, some experts question: does this policy not create speculative bubbles? Banks, now more open to bitcoin through loans , could well become key players in its massive adoption. But this trend will also depend on global economic stability and future regulation.
BTC facing rate hikes in Japan: towards an inevitable victory?
As the Bank of Japan (BOJ) considers a rate hike this December, a first in years, BTC positions itself as a potential refuge against inflation. This monetary divergence between the US and Japan could strengthen bitcoin’s appeal, perceived as a hedge against economic risks.
Institutional investors, increasingly present in the bitcoin market, see this cryptocurrency as an essential asset, even in periods of monetary tightening. For analysts, bitcoin has become a pillar of the global financial system, capable of withstanding monetary tensions. If BTC emerges victorious from this divergence, it could confirm its status as a safe-haven asset, attracting more institutional capital and consolidating its place in banks.
Are traditional banks becoming the new dominant players in the crypto market? This massive bitcoin adoption by financial institutions marks a historic turning point according to Michael Saylor. However, it also raises questions about decentralization and systemic risks.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
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