Nubank Receives OCC Approval for US Banking Operations

• Lyla Velez
• February 5, 2026
• Business
• 0 Comments

Nubank, the Brazil-based digital bank, has received conditional approval from the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to form a national bank, Nubank, N.A., in several US locations.

This approval is an opportunity to demonstrate that a digital-first model could reshape global financial services, emphasizing customer-centric approaches. Nubank secured conditional OCC approval to launch Nubank, N.A., highlighting important leadership roles and market intentions. This step comes after a process requiring further regulatory endorsements, including FDIC and Federal Reserve approvals. Cristina Junqueira, co-founder and CEO of Nubank’s emerging US business, said, “Receiving federal approval for a national bank charter is a significant step in our journey to becoming a solid, compliant, and competitive regulated institution in the US.”

“Receiving federal approval for a national bank charter is a significant step in our journey to becoming a solid, compliant, and competitive regulated institution in the US.” – Cristina Junqueira

CEO David Vélez aims to establish a foothold in the US financial sector, focusing on innovative banking solutions. This venture will include services such as deposit accounts and digital asset custody. Roberto Campos Neto joins as chairman to provide governance insights.

Nubank’s expansion into the US signals broader market implications, highlighting a potential shift in competitive dynamics. The objective includes providing digital asset custody, which aligns with an increased interest in integrating crypto services. With 127 million global users, Nubank emphasizes strategic growth and technological advancements.

The initiative’s effects extend to regulatory landscapes and financial services, potentially enhancing customer experiences through digital solutions. The lack of direct cryptocurrency impacts indicates a concentrated focus on traditional banking while anticipating possible future crypto integrations.

Pending full approvals, the next stages involve financial ecosystem contributions, potentially stirring industry innovations. “This approval isn’t just an expansion of our operation; it’s an opportunity to prove our thesis that a digital-first, customer-centric model is the future of financial services globally,” stated David Vélez, Founder and CEO of Nu Holdings.

“This approval isn’t just an expansion of our operation; it’s an opportunity to prove our thesis that a digital-first, customer-centric model is the future of financial services globally.” – David Vélez

Historical trends suggest a pattern of digital banks augmenting traditional service models with modernized infrastructure.