Move Aims to Expand Regulated Custody and Staking Services Across the United States
Crypto.com has officially filed an application for a US National Trust Bank Charter, marking a major step toward securing a federal foothold in the American financial system. If approved, the license would allow the company to provide federally regulated custody and trust services for digital assets under the supervision of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
More recently, Coinbase submitted its own application in early October, saying the charter would allow it to launch new regulated products “with confidence and clarity.”
The Singapore-based exchange said the proposed entity would offer custody for digital asset treasuries, ETFs, and institutional portfolios, aligning its operations with US regulatory standards. A National Trust Bank Charter enables a firm to operate as a limited-purpose trust bank, focusing on holding, managing, and safeguarding assets rather than issuing loans or accepting deposits.
“This move demonstrates Crypto.com’s commitment to working within established financial frameworks while expanding access to regulated digital asset services,” said a New York-based fintech policy analyst familiar with OCC procedures.
Bridging Regulation and Innovation
Crypto.com is already licensed as a trust company in New Hampshire, but the federal charter would significantly expand its reach and legitimacy nationwide.
The company’s decision follows a broader industry push for regulatory clarity and secure custody solutions for institutional clients amid growing scrutiny of crypto service providers.
“Federal trust status is becoming a competitive advantage for exchanges looking to attract institutional capital,” explained crypto banking consultant Daniel Rowe. “It signals strong compliance and risk management standards, both of which institutional investors demand.”
Industry Momentum Toward Federal Charters
The exchange joins several other major crypto firms pursuing similar paths. Anchorage Digital Bank became the first digital asset company to receive a US National Trust Bank Charter in 2021, followed by Paxos, which secured conditional approval the same year.
By pursuing the charter, Crypto.com positions itself alongside top-tier regulated institutions, reflecting a clear shift in the digital asset industry toward federal oversight and trust-based service models.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.