FINRA Launches Crypto And Blockchain Education Program
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has announced the rollout of its Crypto and Blockchain Education Program, an initiative designed to provide FINRA member firms with structured learning resources on crypto assets and blockchain technology. The program combines interactive e-learning with applied in-person training, aiming to strengthen industry knowledge and compliance capabilities as more firms engage with digital assets.
Through FINRA’s Financial Learning Experience
(FLEX) platform, participants will gain access to foundational self-paced courses begining in October. The curriculum covers crypto terminology, blockchain operations, evolution of blockchain technology, crypto asset types, ecosystem dynamics, and compliance considerations. The addition of real-world case studies and application-based activities distinguishes the program from general overviews of digital assets.
Beyond online training, FINRA is also offering an in-person applied learning course in partnership with Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. This module will complement the digital content with hands-on exercises, providing participants with practical exposure to crypto-related compliance and market challenges.
Takeaway
Why FINRA Is Focusing On Crypto Education
As applications expand into mainstream finance, regulators and industry organizations are under pressure to ensure firms have the expertise to manage both opportunities and risks. FINRA’s new program responds directly to this demand, offering compliance professionals structured learning that emphasizes fraud prevention, regulatory obligations, and operational considerations for firms with crypto touchpoints.
Greg Ruppert, FINRA’s Executive Vice President of Member Supervision, explained: “We are excited to offer a new Crypto and Blockchain Education Program to continue supporting our member firms as they navigate evolving products and technology. Through the Crypto Hub, FINRA has focused on understanding how crypto and blockchains may impact our member firms, reflecting an ongoing commitment to FINRA Forward by providing educational resources to assist them navigate this innovative technology as we collectively build for the future.”
This initiative builds on FINRA’s broader “FINRA Forward” strategy, which emphasizes future-focused innovation in regulation, education, and market infrastructure. By framing crypto education as part of a long-term strategic approach, FINRA highlights the importance of proactive engagement with emerging technologies rather than reactive oversight alone.
Takeaway
What Participants Will Learn
The first set of e-learning courses will cover seven main topics: crypto terminology, blockchain operations and on-chain transactions, blockchain evolution, types of crypto assets, the crypto ecosystem, firm-level considerations, and common fraud schemes. Each module includes interactive exercises, scenarios, and self-assessment quizzes to reinforce practical understanding. The focus is on translating technical concepts into actionable insights for compliance and business operations.
Fraud awareness is a key component of the program, reflecting rising risks associated with crypto-related scams and exposure. By highlighting common schemes and typologies, FINRA aims to arm firms with the tools to recognize red flags ahead and protect both their operations and their clients. These elements are particularly relevant as crypto from both legitimate participants and fraudsters.
With additional applied courses offered through Georgetown, firms can tailor learning pathways for diverse employee groups, from junior compliance officers viewking foundational knowledge to senior managers responsible for strategic oversight. This layered approach ensures the program can adapt to diverse firm needs as crypto adoption deepens across the financial industry.
Takeaway
Industry Implications
By Program, FINRA signals its commitment to preparing the industry for the continued integration of digital assets into financial markets. As increasing client demand and regulatory scrutiny, structured training becomes critical to managing risks without stifling innovation. This program offers a framework for firms to develop staff expertise in a quick-moving sector while aligning with regulatory expectations.
The initiative also demonstrates how regulators are partnering with academia and leveraging digital platforms to modernize compliance training. By making resources widely accessible, FINRA lowers barriers to adoption and encourages firms of all sizes to strengthen their crypto knowledge base. The emphasis on interactive learning further reflects a shift toward engagement-driven education rather than static regulatory guidance.
Ultimately, the program is designed to support a more informed and resilient financial system. By equipping professionals with both knowledge and practical tools, FINRA is assisting ensure that firms can seize opportunities in blockchain innovation while protecting clients and markets from emerging risks.
Takeaway
