JPMorgan Chase, the largest bank in the U.S., is taking a major step into the world of cryptocurrency by offering loans secured by crypto-related assets, starting with BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF. This move follows significant encouragement from the Trump administration for the sector’s growth. 1 JPMorgan will be lending to customers using their holdings of ETFs tied to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin as collateral, according to a Bloomberg report. 2 This marks the latest in a series of moves by major U.S. banks to integrate themselves with the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape. Additionally, JPMorgan has begun integrating crypto holdings into its wealth management calculations, offering clients access to loans based on their crypto assets alongside traditional investments like stocks, cars, and art. 3 JPMorgan has long been a pioneer in blockchain technology, leveraging it for payments and collaborations with companies like Coinbase. However, CEO Jamie Dimon previously expressed skepticism towards Bitcoin. However, he recently allowed JPMorgan to offer the cryptocurrency to clients, acknowledging its potential while maintaining cautious perspective. 4 This latest development highlights the changing landscape of financial services as cryptocurrencies gain more prominence in mainstream finance.