Coinbase, one of the world’s leading digital asset platforms, has filed an application with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a National Trust Company Charter.
The move marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing effort to expand its regulatory oversight and business capabilities while continuing to innovate in the digital asset space.
The charter would allow Coinbase to build upon its existing Custody business and explore new offerings, including payments and related financial services, without operating as a traditional bank.
Coinbase emphasized that clear regulatory guidance and trust from both regulators and customers are essential to safely growing its business and integrating crypto solutions into mainstream finance.
Coinbase Custody Trust Company (CCTC) and Coinbase Inc. will continue to operate under the supervision of the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) during the OCC review process.
Since receiving its pioneering BitLicense in 2015, Coinbase has leveraged NYDFS oversight to establish operational maturity, foster institutional trust, and strengthen market confidence, foundations that now support its federal charter application.
The company highlighted the importance of uniform regulations for the crypto industry. While Congress continues to work on establishing a clear market structure for digital assets, Coinbase noted that cryptocurrencies are already deeply integrated into the financial system.
A national charter would streamline oversight for new products, provide clarity for institutional and retail investors, and enable broader adoption of digital assets.
Coinbase said it looks forward to collaborating with OCC staff throughout the review process and addressing any questions arising from public comments.
Achieving a federal charter would, according to the company, position Coinbase to confidently continue bridging the gap between traditional finance and the crypto economy, supporting the development of a modern financial system powered by digital assets.