Today in crypto, OpenAI will deploy its AI models on Pentagon classified networks, Wall Street giant Morgan Stanley has applied for a bank charter to custody, trade and stake crypto on behalf of clients. Meanwhile, Barclays is reportedly in the early stages of building a platform that can handle stablecoin and tokenized deposit settlement.
OpenAI wins defense contract hours after government ditches Anthropic
OpenAI has reached an agreement with the United States Department of Defense to deploy its artificial intelligence models on classified military networks, just hours after the White House ordered federal agencies to stop using technology from rival firm Anthropic.
In a late Friday post on X, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced the deal, saying the company would provide its models inside the Pentagon’s “classified network.” He wrote that the department showed “deep respect for safety” and a willingness to work within the company’s operating limits.
The announcement came amid a turbulent week for the AI sector. Earlier the same day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled Anthropic a “Supply-Chain Risk to National Security,” a designation typically applied to foreign adversaries. The ruling requires defense contractors to certify they are not using the company’s models.
President Donald Trump simultaneously directed every US federal agency to immediately halt use of Anthropic technology, with a six-month transition period for agencies already relying on its systems.
Morgan Stanley applies for OCC bank charter to custody crypto
Morgan Stanley has applied for a de novo national trust bank charter, allowing the bank to hold digital assets on behalf of its clients — a move in rhythm with its recent crypto expansion.
A public filing with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) shows the application for a bank trust charter was received on Feb. 18 under the name “Morgan Stanley Digital Trust, National Association.”
More details of the business plan were released on Friday, according to reports from Bloomberg and Forbes, revealing that the Morgan Stanley subsidiary will custody certain digital assets and execute purchases, sales, swaps and transfers to support client investment activities, along with crypto staking.
Barclays explores blockchain for payments and stablecoins
Barclays is reportedly exploring the use of blockchain technology to support payments, deposits and stablecoin activity, signaling deeper interest from a major global bank in digital asset infrastructure.
According to Bloomberg, the UK lender has approached technology providers about building a platform that could handle tokenized deposits and 24/7 settlement, and may choose a partner in the coming months. The effort would mark a significant step toward integrating blockchain into Barclays’ core banking systems rather than limiting it to experimental pilots.
The move comes as traditional financial institutions ramp up stablecoin and tokenization initiatives amid growing regulatory clarity and rising institutional demand. If Barclays proceeds, it would join a widening group of global banks betting on blockchain-based payments.
