Ripple Sees Path Forward Without CLARITY Act Thanks to OCC Charter

Researcher SMOKE argues that Ripple can advance its institutional ambitions without the CLARITY Act. The bill, which aims to establish a broader regulatory framework for digital assets, is facing another delay in the U.S. Senate. However, this uncertainty may not hinder Ripple's progress.

The company has already secured a national trust bank charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), conditionally approved in December 2025. This path could strengthen Ripple's position with financial institutions and regulated businesses, particularly across custody, stablecoin operations, and RLUSD reserve management.

While the OCC approval is conditional and does not mean Ripple is already operating as a fully established national bank, it provides an important avenue for the company to build its federal regulatory standing. SMOKE's argument is that this path can complement the CLARITY Act, rather than replacing it.