OCC Chief Says Crypto Firms Should Have Clear Path to Federal Bank Charters
OCC Comptroller Jonathan Gould said crypto and fintech firms seeking US federal charters should be treated the same as traditional banks, arguing blockchain is a technology for delivering established banking services such as custody and safekeeping. Speaking at a December 8 blockchain policy summit, Gould noted the OCC has received about 14 new national trust bank applications this year, including from digital-asset firms, and highlighted the agency’s supervisory experience with crypto-native trust banks (Anchorage Digital and Erebor). He rejected arguments that digital assets require special regulatory treatment, dismissed concerns about the OCC’s supervisory capacity, and warned that resistance from incumbent banks and trade groups could slow clarity on charters and limit benefits to clients and communities. The stance signals the OCC’s willingness to provide clearer charter pathways for crypto firms, potentially increasing regulatory oversight and encouraging broader banking integration of blockchain custody services. Key SEO keywords: OCC, federal bank charter, crypto firms, custody, blockchain.
Neutral
The OCC’s clear support for federal charters for crypto firms is structurally positive for the sector because it reduces regulatory uncertainty and opens a pathway for regulated custody and banking services. That should be supportive for firms seeking charters and could increase institutional adoption over time. However, the immediate price impact on specific cryptocurrencies mentioned is likely limited. The news concerns regulatory and banking infrastructure rather than token economics or network upgrades that directly affect supply/demand. Short-term market reaction may be muted or mixed as traders weigh the practical timeline for charters, potential legal challenges, and opposition from incumbent banks. Over the medium to long term, clearer charter pathways and supervisory oversight could be bullish for assets tied to platforms that benefit from increased institutional custody and banking services, but the effect will be gradual and contingent on approvals and implementation.