Erebor Secures Conditional OCC Charter for Crypto Banking
Erebor Bank has obtained preliminary conditional approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a national bank charter, marking a significant step toward serving the innovation economy. Backed by prominent investors including Peter Thiel, Palmer Luckey, and Joe Lonsdale, the bank aims to become a cornerstone for crypto, AI, and defense startups.
The OCC's decision signals a policy shift, indicating that federally chartered banks may engage in digital asset activities if conducted safely and soundly. Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould emphasized that Erebor is the first de novo bank to receive such approval under his tenure, reflecting a commitment to fostering a dynamic and diverse federal banking system.
This MOVE underscores the growing institutional acceptance of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, potentially paving the way for further integration of digital assets into traditional finance.