Coinbase files for National Trust Charter to expand regulated crypto services

Coinbase announced its application for a National Trust Charter with the OCC, seeking unified federal oversight for its crypto custody and payments business.

Coinbase has applied for a U.S. National Trust Charter with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to bring its crypto operations under a single federal regulator. The charter would replace the company’s multiple state-level trust licenses with unified oversight, streamlining compliance across its growing custody and payments businesses.

Vice President Greg Tusar said the application reflects Coinbase’s commitment to “innovation and regulatory clarity.” He emphasized that the company does not intend to become a bank; the charter would not permit lending or deposit-taking but would ensure consistent national supervision.

The filing marks a key step in Coinbase’s regulatory evolution as it seeks closer alignment with U.S. financial standards. If approved, it could set a precedent for other crypto firms pursuing national trust charters to strengthen institutional credibility and operational efficiency.