Coinbase Applies for US Banking License, Joining Growing Pack of Crypto Firms

**Coinbase Pursues US Banking License as Cryptocurrency Exchange Seeks Regulatory Expansion**

Major cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has officially applied for a National Trust Company Charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), marking a significant step toward traditional banking integration. This strategic move positions Coinbase alongside other leading crypto firms pursuing banking licenses to expand their financial services offerings.

The application represents Coinbase's ambitious effort to bridge the gap between traditional banking and digital asset services, potentially enabling the platform to offer enhanced custody solutions, lending services, and institutional banking products. This regulatory development could strengthen Coinbase's position in the competitive cryptocurrency market while providing increased legitimacy for blockchain-based financial services.

As Bitcoin and other digital currencies gain mainstream adoption, crypto exchanges are increasingly seeking banking charters to comply with evolving regulations and offer comprehensive DeFi solutions. The National Trust Company Charter would allow Coinbase to operate as a federally regulated bank, potentially boosting investor confidence and expanding its cryptocurrency trading and custody capabilities. This regulatory milestone could significantly impact Coinbase's stock performance and the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem's institutional adoption.