Ripple has received conditional approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to establish a national trust bank, potentially enhancing the institutional appeal of its cryptocurrency, XRP. Announced on December 12, 2025, the bank will focus on custody and settlement services, aligning with efforts to counter the financing of terrorism. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse described the approval as a significant step towards stablecoin compliance. The new trust bank must fulfill specific pre-opening requirements before it can officially launch. This development coincides with ongoing speculation about the approval of a bitcoin ETF, which could further accelerate the adoption of digital assets. Ripple's strategic move is seen as a pivotal moment in expanding its financial services and strengthening its position in the cryptocurrency market.