ABA Demands OCC Halt Bank Charter Reviews for Ripple, Coinbase

Edgen Crypto

·Feb 12 2026, 09:40

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Key Takeaways

The American Banking Association (ABA) has formally requested that the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) stop all reviews of national bank charter applications from cryptocurrency firms. This action introduces a significant new obstacle for digital asset companies seeking to integrate into the U.S. federal banking system.

Direct Intervention: On February 12, 2026, the ABA called for an immediate halt to the OCC's charter review process for all crypto-related applicants.
Major Firms Targeted: The move directly impacts pending and future applications from industry leaders such as Ripple, Coinbase, and Circle.
Increased Uncertainty: This action signals intensifying opposition from the traditional banking sector, creating significant regulatory headwinds for crypto firms aiming to expand their financial services in the United States.

ABA Moves to Block Crypto Firms from National Bank Charters

The American Banking Association (ABA) took a decisive step on February 12, 2026, calling on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to immediately cease its review of national bank charter applications from cryptocurrency companies. The demand represents a direct challenge from the established financial industry against the integration of digital asset firms into the federally regulated banking framework. By targeting the chartering process, the ABA aims to prevent crypto companies from gaining the operational advantages and legitimacy that come with a national bank designation.

Ripple, Coinbase, and Circle Face New Regulatory Hurdle

This directive specifically threatens the strategic ambitions of major crypto players, including Ripple, Coinbase, and Circle, all of which have sought or are expected to seek national charters. Obtaining a national bank charter would allow these firms to offer regulated banking services across the United States without navigating the complex and costly patchwork of state-by-state licensing. The ABA's opposition introduces a substantial roadblock, potentially delaying or derailing these plans indefinitely. The move heightens regulatory uncertainty and may negatively impact investor sentiment and the valuations of the affected companies as they face a more contentious path to expansion in the U.S. market.