Circle Secures National Trust Bank Charter, Paving Way for Web3 Integration

Circle, a leading stablecoin issuer, has received approval for a National Trust Bank charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) on July 10, 2026. This marks a significant milestone in the U.S. Web3 regulatory system, as Circle becomes one of the first stablecoin issuers to enter the federal banking regulatory system.

The National Trust Bank charter is a critical turning point in U.S. digital asset regulatory logic, shifting from restrictive regulation towards integrating Web3 infrastructure into the unified federal financial system. The GENIUS Act's establishment of a federal regulatory framework for payment stablecoins has driven an increasing number of Web3 companies to apply for National Trust Bank charters.

These institutional incentives have transformed the U.S. Web3 industry from traditional Web3 enterprises into licensed financial infrastructure providers. Circle's approval provides potential access to the Federal Reserve payment system and independent clearing capabilities, further solidifying its position as a leading stablecoin issuer.