US lender Rate unveils mortgage program recognizing crypto holdings

CoinTelegraph

by Nate Kostar

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

US lender Rate has introduced a groundbreaking nationwide mortgage program called RateFi, allowing qualified borrowers to use verified cryptocurrency holdings to meet underwriting requirements without liquidating their assets. This innovative initiative marks a significant step toward integrating digital assets into traditional home financing. By leveraging crypto assets as qualifying reserves or income sources, the program offers borrowers greater flexibility and financial opportunities. RateFi operates within the lender’s non-qualified mortgage framework, ensuring compliance with traditional risk standards while accommodating digital assets. Kate Amor, EVP and head of enterprise products at Rate, explained that the platform employs a proprietary valuation framework to assess crypto holdings. This framework considers factors such as market price, liquidity, and asset-specific volatility, enabling certain digital assets to contribute to borrower qualification without requiring the sale of those assets. The program is particularly significant for crypto investors who may hold substantial digital assets but lack traditional savings or liquid funds. By recognizing crypto holdings in underwriting decisions, RateFi provides a pathway for individuals with large cryptocurrency portfolios to access homeownership opportunities. This approach not only enhances financial accessibility but also validates the growing role of digital assets in the broader financial ecosystem. For readers interested in both cryptocurrency and real estate, this development highlights how traditional institutions are beginning to embrace blockchain technology. By offering a program that aligns crypto holdings with conventional mortgage requirements, RateFi bridges the gap between the digital asset world and mainstream finance. This integration could pave the way for more borrowers to achieve their homeownership goals while maintaining their investment in cryptocurrency. Overall, the launch of RateFi represents a forward-thinking approach by Rate, addressing the needs of crypto-savvy individuals seeking to leverage their digital assets for significant life milestones like purchasing a home. As the program evolves, it could set a precedent for other financial institutions looking to integrate blockchain technology into traditional lending practices.

Verticals

cryptoblockchain

Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/23/2026