Definition ∞ Banking sector exposure refers to the degree to which traditional financial institutions hold or are otherwise involved with digital assets or blockchain-related businesses. This involvement can range from direct investments in cryptocurrencies to providing services for crypto companies. It also includes the risk associated with lending to entities whose financial stability is tied to the volatile digital asset market. Assessing this exposure is crucial for understanding potential systemic financial risks.
Context ∞ Regulators globally are scrutinizing banking sector exposure to cryptocurrencies, seeking to quantify and manage potential risks to financial stability. Recent news highlights debates over appropriate capital requirements and risk management frameworks for banks engaging with digital assets. The extent of this exposure is a key indicator of crypto’s integration into the mainstream financial system and a point of regulatory focus.