In wide-ranging remarks opening the 2026 American Bankers Association Annual Convention, ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols laid out how the association will position itself to support banks in the digital asset space, particularly through tokenized money, including tokenized deposits and stablecoins.
Among other things, ABA will take on two key roles, Nichols noted. First, ABA will serve as the banking industry’s “on-ramp” to the world of digital assets, through which the association will position itself as a primary source of education, guidance and practical support for banks as they evaluate opportunities around tokenized money. The second role ABA will play is that of a “trusted convener,” which Nichols noted will “bring industry participants together and advocate for fair, equitable access to emerging tokenized money infrastructure.”
“We recognize that many banks are interested in tokenized money, but may lack the resources, expertise, or market visibility available to larger institutions. That’s where ABA can help,” Nichols said. “ABA is actively advancing a strategy around tokenized money that ensures our members have the information and opportunity to embrace innovation where it makes sense and on your terms.” Learn more at aba.com/TokenizedMoney.
