Coinbase has filed for a National Trust Charter with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, led by Brian Armstrong and Emilie Choi, on October 2025.
The charter aims to expand Coinbase's institutional custody and payment services, potentially reducing regulatory fragmentation, attracting more clients, and boosting cryptocurrency market stability.
Coinbase has applied for a National Trust Charter with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
This strategic move by CEO Brian Armstrong and President Emilie Choi is aimed at enhancing institutional custody and payment services without forming a traditional bank.
Coinbase has applied for a National Trust Charter with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Initiated by CEO Brian Armstrong and President Emilie Choi, the move aims to enhance institutional custody and payment services without forming a traditional bank. As Armstrong noted,
"We believe applying for a federal trust charter will allow us to streamline regulatory compliance and bring innovative crypto products to more institutional clients across the U.S."
The charter would allow Coinbase to streamline regulatory compliance, launching new products such as custody, payments, and settlements. Coinbase, the largest U.S. crypto exchange, has operated under high regulatory standards, notably holding a New York BitLicense since 2015.
Charter Approval Could Boost Institutional Investment
The potential charter approval could attract more institutional investment and increase asset flows to Coinbase. With increased compliance efficiency, the exchange may draw liquidity from smaller rivals, enhancing its position in the U.S. crypto market.
Approval could lead to increased USDC stablecoin use for payroll and payments. Historical trends suggest similar regulatory endorsements boost institutional engagement and asset inflows. The decision may bolster Coinbase's influence in cryptocurrency regulation.
Lessons from Circle and Ripple's Similar Initiatives
Previous firms like Circle and Ripple pursued similar charters, experiencing higher institutional engagement and product expansion following approval. Token flows and market sentiment typically improve around regulatory achievements, notably with stablecoin adoption surges.
Market expert Daniel Roberts suggests the charter enables Coinbase to ensure product adherence to regulations. This strategic growth aligns with historical regulatory approvals that supported increased liquidity and expanded financial products.