Ripple has received final federal chartering approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, completing authorization for Ripple National Trust Bank (RNTB) to manage reserves and provide digital asset custody services, the company announced on October 27, 2026.
The OCC approval follows conditional approval granted to RNTB in December 2025. RNTB is now authorized to manage reserves backing Ripple USD (RLUSD), serve as collateral trustee for RLUSD holders, and offer digital asset custody to clients.
Brad Garlinghouse, Ripple CEO, said in a statement: “We’ve always said crypto and banks work better together — this is what that looks like. Real innovation, real accountability, federal oversight.”
RLUSD and Trust Bank Operations
RLUSD continues to be issued by Standard Custody & Trust Company, which is regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services. The stablecoin’s issuance structure remains separate from RNTB’s new trust bank charter.
A national trust bank is a federally chartered institution focused on holding and managing assets on behalf of clients. Most national trust banks do not accept deposits, make loans, or carry FDIC insurance, distinguishing them from traditional commercial banks.
Broader Regulatory Momentum
Ripple’s final approval adds to a series of OCC chartering decisions for crypto firms. Circle secured final OCC approval in July 2026. Coinbase received preliminary approval in April 2026. Crypto.com and Bridge each received conditional approvals in February 2026.
