Stripe Eyes US Banking Licenses to Expand Stablecoin Operations

Stripe is preparing to seek key banking licenses in the United States as it advances its stablecoin issuance efforts.

According to The Information, the global payment firm is planning to apply for a national trust charter with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The license would allow the company to comply with new federal standards governing stablecoins. This, in turn, ensures it can continue offering digital asset products to clients.

In parallel, the company is also preparing to seek a trust license from the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). Both approvals are considered essential for firms seeking to issue and manage digital dollars under U.S. law.

Infrastructure Backed by Major Players

Open Issuance is built on Bridge, a stablecoin infrastructure startup acquired by Stripe for $1.1 billion in October 2024. To support treasury operations, Stripe has partnered with some of the world’s largest asset managers. Notably, among these are BlackRock, Fidelity Investments, and the blockchain-native firm Superstate.

Stripe argues that its solution reduces the compliance and liquidity risks businesses face when building stablecoins independently.

A Booming Market Under New Rules

Stablecoins have become one of the fastest-growing areas in the financial sector. The market is currently around $300 billion, and the U.S. Treasury projects it could expand to $2 trillion by 2028.

The surge has been aided by the GENIUS Act signed into law in July 2025 under the Trump administration. The legislation set out a federal framework for stablecoin oversight, prompting financial companies to explore opportunities in the sector with greater confidence.

Expanding Beyond Traditional Payments

The company’s stablecoin ambitions are part of a broader push into the cryptocurrency sector. In May 2025, Stripe launched a money management feature that allows businesses in 101 countries to hold and transfer U.S. dollar stablecoins. The next month, it acquired crypto wallet startup Privy, strengthening its infrastructure for digital payments.