Coinbase Seeks Unified Federal Oversight with OCC National Trust Charter Application

Coinbase has taken a major step in its regulatory strategy by applying for a U.S. National Trust Charter with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).

This application is designed to replace the company’s current patchwork of state-level licenses, bringing its crypto custody and payments businesses under the unified oversight of a single federal regulator.

Why the Charter Matters

• Streamlined Compliance: If approved, the National Trust Charter would significantly simplify compliance across Coinbase’s growing operations, improving operational efficiency.
• No Banking Ambitions: Coinbase emphasized that it is not seeking to become a traditional bank. The charter would provide national supervision for its trust activities but would not permit lending or deposit-taking.
• Regulatory Clarity: Vice President Greg Tusar stated the application reflects Coinbase's dedication to innovation and achieving greater regulatory clarity in the digital asset space.

The filing is a pivotal moment for Coinbase, aiming for closer alignment with established U.S. financial standards and potentially setting a precedent for other crypto firms seeking enhanced institutional credibility through federal oversight.

October 2025, Cryptoniteuae