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OCC Approves World Liberty Trust Bank for Stablecoin Operations Amid Controversy

Cryptelio Editorial Published 18 Aug 2026 · 13:00 UTC

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has granted preliminary conditional approval to World Liberty Financial's application to establish the World Liberty Trust Company, National Association, aimed at stablecoin operations and digital asset custody.

This new bank plans to issue and redeem the USD1 stablecoin, maintain reserves in a non-fiduciary capacity, and provide fiduciary digital asset custody along with limited conversion services for custody customers. The OCC stated that the approval was based on the proposal meeting certain regulatory and policy requirements.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from Senator Elizabeth Warren, who labeled it a significant act of self-dealing within the financial system. Warren announced her intention to introduce the Ending Presidential Corruption in Banking Act, which aims to prohibit banking charter approvals and ownership by presidents, vice presidents, and their family members.

The proposed legislation is described as a measure to combat unprecedented corruption in the banking sector, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the intersection of politics and finance.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the World Liberty Trust Company?

The World Liberty Trust Company aims to operate in the stablecoin market, issuing and redeeming a USD1 stablecoin, maintaining reserves, and providing digital asset custody services.

What regulatory body approved the World Liberty Trust Company's operations?

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) granted preliminary conditional approval for the World Liberty Trust Company's application.

What concerns have been raised regarding the approval of World Liberty Trust Company?

Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the approval, calling it an act of self-dealing and announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at preventing banking charter approvals for certain political figures.

What is the Ending Presidential Corruption in Banking Act?

The Ending Presidential Corruption in Banking Act is proposed legislation by Senator Warren that seeks to prohibit banking charter approvals and ownership by presidents, vice presidents, and their family members to combat corruption in the banking sector.

What services will World Liberty Trust Company provide to its custody customers?

World Liberty Trust Company will provide fiduciary digital asset custody services along with limited conversion services for its custody customers.

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