Ripple's Federally Regulated Bank Takes Shape Amid Shift in US Crypto Regulation

Ripple's bid to establish a federally regulated trust bank has gained momentum as U.S. banking regulators make it easier for new entrants, including digital-asset companies, to obtain national charters.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) wants to reverse a decline in new bank formations and provide a clearer route for companies seeking federal charters. In the past 18 months, the OCC has received 40 de novo applications, including national trust bank applications, which have been decided within 120 days after receiving a complete filing.

Ripple is particularly exposed to this policy shift as its application has already advanced beyond the initial stage. The OCC granted preliminary conditional approval to Ripple National Trust Bank in December 2025, alongside applications involving Circle, BitGo, Fidelity Digital Assets, and Paxos. However, Ripple must complete the remaining pre-opening requirements before receiving final authorization.

Ripple's proposed institution is expected to focus on areas such as institutional custody, settlement, and trust services rather than consumer checking accounts or traditional lending. The company's path toward final OCC authorization for its national trust bank has been closely tracked as it moves toward final approval.