U.S. Comptroller Urges Inclusive Banking for Digital Asset Firms

U.S. Comptroller Urges Inclusive Banking for Digital Asset Firms

OCC chief Jonathan Gould told a blockchain conference that crypto bank charter applicants deserve equal evaluation, highlighting the need for banking technology to adapt to blockchain developments.

Summary

Speaking at a blockchain conference, U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan Gould reiterated that cryptocurrency companies seeking federal bank charters should be treated the same as other financial institutions. He stressed that digital custody has long been managed electronically and argued banking technology should evolve into the blockchain era. This aligns with previous remarks emphasizing fair treatment for crypto applicants and broader adaptation to technological change within the financial sector.

Terms & Concepts
  • Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC): The U.S. federal agency responsible for overseeing national banks and federal savings associations.
  • Bank charter: An official license issued by a regulator that allows a financial institution to operate as a bank.
  • Digital custody: The electronic safekeeping and management of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, by financial institutions or custodians.