US based mortgage lender Newrez will begin recognizing cryptocurrency holdings as qualifying assets in its mortgage approval process, marking a notable shift in how digital assets are treated in housing finance. The policy is set to take effect in February and will apply across the company’s non-agency mortgage products, including home purchases, refinancings, and investment properties.
Bitcoin, Ether, ETFs, and Stablecoins Eligible
Under the new framework, borrowers may use Bitcoin, Ether, spot crypto ETFs, and US dollar-backed stablecoins for asset verification and income assessment without being forced to liquidate their holdings. Eligible assets must be custodied with US-regulated exchanges, fintech platforms, brokerages, or nationally chartered banks. Newrez said asset values may be adjusted to account for crypto market volatility, while all mortgage payments and closing costs will continue to be settled in US dollars.
Newrez executives noted that nearly half of Gen Z and Millennial investors hold cryptocurrency, positioning digital assets as an increasingly relevant part of household balance sheets. The policy aims to broaden access to homeownership, particularly for younger buyers whose wealth may be concentrated in crypto rather than traditional investments.
The move aligns with ongoing federal discussions around crypto in mortgage risk assessments. In 2025, regulators asked housing agencies to explore recognizing digital assets without conversion to cash, a proposal later reinforced by pending legislation. While still limited, Newrez’s policy reflects a growing acceptance of crypto within mainstream housing finance.
Disclaimer
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