Big U.S. Banks Increase Lobbying Spend 12% in 2025 Amid Crypto and Policy Battles

Big U.S. banks increased lobbying spending 12% in 2025 to $86.8 million, according to OpenSecrets, the most since 2011. Of 38 banks with at least $50 billion in assets, 38 reported lobbying; the top seven trade groups accounted for much of the spending. The increase follows heightened competition from the crypto sector, which spent $40.6 million in 2025—up 66%—and amid regulatory overhauls of capital rules, potential fintech and crypto policy changes, and affordability politics including a proposed credit card interest rate cap. Q4 saw the largest spikes, led by State Street +427%, Goldman Sachs +134%, BNY +56%, and Morgan Stanley +41%, as the landmark crypto bill advanced and regulators ramped up activity. Banks are beefing up ties to the White House and industry-friendly lawmakers to shape the agenda and protect against perceived competition.