Jonathan Gould was appointed the new Comptroller of the Currency (OCC Head) on July 10, 2025, marking a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for U.S. banks.
Shift Towards Blockchain and Digital Asset Regulation
Jonathan Gould's appointment as the new OCC Chief signifies a shift in regulatory paradigm, focusing on blockchain and digital assets. With prior experience as Chief Legal Officer at Bitfury and Senior Deputy Comptroller at the OCC, Gould brings substantial knowledge of legal and industry challenges.
Clarifying Crypto Custody Rules for U.S. Banks
The anticipated outcome is heightened regulatory clarity for U.S. banks engaging in crypto custody, affecting assets like BTC and ETH. Existing rules now favor crypto activities with proper risk management. As Rodney Hood, Acting Comptroller of the Currency, noted, "National banks and federal savings associations are well positioned to engage in this space responsibly."
Increasing Institutional Interest in Cryptocurrencies
Regulatory changes may lead to an increase in interest from institutional investors in cryptocurrencies. Similar shifts under former leader Brian Brooks contributed to raised interest in BTC and stablecoins. Market trends indicate that regulatory support fosters growth in participation among banks in the crypto space.
Jonathan Gould's appointment as Comptroller of the Currency highlights the importance of crypto expertise in bank regulation. His leadership is expected to bring significant regulatory changes regarding cryptocurrencies and increase banks' interest in digital assets.
