OCC Finalizes Stablecoin Regulations Under GENIUS Act

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has finalized regulations implementing the GENIUS Act, which establishes a federal framework for payment stablecoins. These regulations, published on October 21, 2026, will take effect on January 18, 2027, and outline rules for stablecoin issuers and related activities.

The finalized rule includes provisions for compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act, anti-money laundering requirements, and sanctions, which will be addressed separately in coordination with the Treasury Department. The new regulations are encapsulated in a section of federal regulations, 12 CFR 15, detailing standards for stablecoin activities, reserve assets, redemption procedures, risk management, audits, reporting, and regulatory supervision.

Additionally, the framework covers issuer applications, registrations, oversight of foreign issuers, and the conditions under which an issuer's approval may be revoked. The OCC has stated that the final rule reflects feedback received after its proposed rulemaking in February 2026, indicating a thorough review process.

The GENIUS Act, enacted on July 18, 2025, prohibits unauthorized entities from issuing stablecoins in the U.S. and restricts digital asset service providers from offering or selling payment stablecoins unless compliant with the law. The OCC will oversee both domestic and foreign payment stablecoin issuers, ensuring adherence to the new regulatory framework.

The final rule also addresses custody activities for institutions under OCC supervision, marking a significant step towards enhancing the regulatory landscape for stablecoins in the U.S.