Ripple, the blockchain company behind the digital asset XRP, is nearing a landmark moment in its pursuit to reshape the global financial system. On July 2, 2025, Ripple filed an application with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a national banking charter, which—if approved—would allow it to operate as a federally regulated bank in the United States.

The OCC typically renders decisions within a 120-day window, placing the expected approval or denial date at November 29, 2025.

What a Bank License Would Mean for Ripple A national banking license would allow Ripple to:

Hold customer funds as a regulated financial institution

Offer digital asset custody and settlement services

Facilitate direct interactions with the Federal Reserve

Expand its On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) platform globally with more regulatory clarity

It would also solidify Ripple’s position in the financial ecosystem by giving it the same regulatory status as traditional banks, unlocking significant strategic and operational advantages.

Targeting a $155 Trillion Market The global cross-border payments market—where Ripple has already established a presence—is estimated to exceed $155 trillion annually, according to data from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). This includes corporate B2B payments, interbank settlements, and remittance flows. With a banking license, Ripple could directly tap into this market with greater efficiency, lower costs, and real-time settlement via XRP and blockchain infrastructure.

Industry Resistance and Regulatory Scrutiny Despite the potential benefits, Ripple’s application faces resistance. Several traditional financial institutions and lobbying groups have voiced concerns about granting full banking privileges to crypto-native firms. These critics argue that existing regulatory frameworks are insufficient for digital asset operations and have requested additional scrutiny or delays.

Nonetheless, Ripple’s years of engagement with regulators, global partnerships, and increasing traction in real-world utility give it a strong case for approval.

What Comes Next If approved, Ripple’s national bank license would mark a watershed moment in the convergence of traditional finance and blockchain technology. It would be the first time a blockchain company in the U.S. gains full banking capabilities—paving the way for direct settlement, tokenized asset custody, and broader integration of crypto into mainstream finance.

The decision, expected by November 29, 2025, could redefine Ripple’s role in the financial sector—and reshape how value moves across borders.