Laser Digital, a digital asset firm backed by Japanese financial group Nomura, is reportedly seeking a US national bank trust charter, highlighting the accelerating push by crypto-focused companies to integrate more deeply into the US financial system under a shifting regulatory climate.
Laser Digital Applies for US Bank Trust Charter
Laser Digital has submitted an application to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a national trust bank charter. If approved, the charter would allow the firm to operate under federal oversight, eliminating the need to secure individual state custody licenses.
The company plans to provide spot trading services for digital assets while explicitly avoiding traditional banking activities such as accepting customer deposits. This structure would allow federally regulated crypto services without the balance-sheet risks associated with deposit-taking banks.
Approval Process and Global Footprint
The OCC approval process typically unfolds in two phases: preliminary approval followed by final authorization once capital adequacy and operational readiness are demonstrated. The full process can take up to a year.
Founded in 2022, Laser Digital is headquartered in Switzerland and has already secured regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions, including Switzerland and Dubai, reinforcing its global compliance profile.
Rising Demand for US Crypto Bank Charters
Laser Digital joins a growing list of crypto and fintech firms pursuing US bank charters. In recent months, several digital asset companies have received conditional OCC approval, signaling increased regulatory openness.
Despite the momentum, some banking groups have raised concerns that granting bank licenses to crypto firms could challenge traditional safeguards and oversight standards, underscoring ongoing tension between legacy finance and digital asset innovation.
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.