Former Bitfury Exec Gould Confirmed to Lead U.S. Banking Agency OCC

The U.S. Senate confirmed Jonathan Gould, a former blockchain executive, as head of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) in a 50-45 vote. Gould's appointment signals a potential shift toward crypto-friendly banking policies, echoing Trump-era directives.

Gould previously served as senior deputy comptroller under Acting Comptroller Brian Brooks, who pioneered crypto bank charters during his tenure. His return to the OCC comes as the agency faces industry criticism for restrictive crypto guidance under the Biden administration.

The MOVE reignites debates about digital asset integration in traditional finance. Gould's experience at Bitfury and Anchorage Digital's groundbreaking charter suggest he may revisit policies affecting crypto-native banks and their regulatory hurdles.