The US Senate confirmed Jonathan Gould as the next OCC Chair in a narrow 50-45 vote on July 10, 2025. The decision gives a pro-crypto figure a central role in shaping national banking policy.
The vote followed a tense session on Capitol Hill. Republicans supported the nomination, while most Democrats voted against it. The confirmation followed months of delays after the Trump administration nominated Gould earlier this year.
Gould’s appointment places him at the head of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, a bureau within the US Treasury that regulates national banks and federal savings associations. His five-year term will start after standard background and security procedures.
Jonathan Gould Brings Crypto Background From BitFury and OCC
Before becoming OCC Chair, Gould worked as Chief Legal Officer at BitFury, a blockchain infrastructure firm. He also served as OCC’s chief counsel from 2018 to 2021, where he supported crypto regulation efforts.
During his time at the OCC, Gould helped draft letters allowing national banks to handle crypto assets, including custody and blockchain node operations. He also supported recognizing stablecoins as part of the banking system.
His experience at BitFury and with the OCC shaped his pro-crypto stance. He worked on legal frameworks for digital asset custody and promoted the use of blockchain in traditional banking structures.
When asked during his April 2025 hearing, Gould described stablecoins as “cash equivalents in native digital form.” He said banks needed clear and consistent rules to manage them.
Crypto Regulation May Shift Under Gould’s OCC Leadership
Gould’s position as OCC Chair allows him to issue guidance that shapes crypto regulation at the national level. His previous statements suggest support for stronger links between banking services and crypto products.
Under his leadership, the OCC could formally recognize stablecoins and expand crypto services within federally chartered banks. This shift would follow earlier decisions that allowed BTC ETF options trading and crypto custody by banks.
His confirmation may also affect state-level policies. Some regulators argue that centralizing crypto regulation in the OCC could limit flexibility for states like Wyoming and Texas, which offer special banking charters to crypto firms.
The balance between state and federal control remains a key issue. Critics warned that if future administrations oppose crypto, state-friendly policies may be blocked under a centralized framework.
Banking Industry Responds to OCC Chair Appointment
Industry groups welcomed Gould’s confirmation. Rob Nichols, CEO of the American Bankers Association, said,
“We look forward to working with Comptroller Gould on a rational framework that promotes a resilient national banking system.”
Large banks may use the OCC’s upcoming guidance to expand stablecoin services and trial blockchain settlements. Some expect movement on existing policy drafts related to tokenized deposits and digital asset reserves.
However, legal analysts have pointed out that Gould will still need to work within existing banking laws. While his stance may shape internal OCC policy, broader rule changes would require action from Congress or other federal agencies.
Gould’s five-year term starts next week, once post-confirmation procedures are complete. His appointment marks the first time since 2020 that a strong pro-crypto figure has led the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
