Digital Assets

The business of banking is rapidly changing with the mass adoption of digital technologies. These innovations can provide convenience and accessibility, but also have the potential to bring risks. The OCC provides policy, guidance, advisories, and information about the use of digital assets in the federal banking system.

News Releases

  • NR 2021-121: OCC Clarifies Bank Authority to Engage in Certain Cryptocurrency Activities and Authority of OCC to Charter National Trust Banks
  • NR 2021-120: Agencies Issue Joint Statement on Crypto-Asset Policy Initiative and Next Steps

Bulletins

  • OCC Bulletin 2021-56: Crypto-Assets: Joint Statement on Crypto-Asset Policy Sprint Initiative and Next Steps
  • OCC Bulletin 2020-59: National Bank and Federal Savings Association Digital Activities: Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

Interpretive Letters

  • Interpretive Letter #1179: Chief Counsel’s Interpretation Clarifying: (1) Authority of a Bank to Engage in Certain Cryptocurrency Activities; and (2) Authority of the OCC to Charter a National Trust Bank
  • Interpretive Letter #1174: OCC Chief Counsel’s Interpretation on National Bank and Federal Savings Association Authority to Use Independent Node Verification Networks and Stablecoins for Payment Activities
  • Interpretive Letter #1172: OCC Chief Counsel’s Interpretation on National Bank and Federal Savings Association Authority to Hold Stablecoin Reserves
  • Interpretive Letter #1170: Authority of a National Bank to Provide Cryptocurrency Custody Services for Customers

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Email: Office of Innovation

Call us: (202) 649-5200

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