OCC Restores Expedited Merger Reviews Benefiting Fintechs and De Novo Banks

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency published an interim final rule that took effect on May 15, 2025, reverting to earlier, more permissive standards for bank merger and charter reviews. The rule restores expedited processing timelines and removes heightened scrutiny that had previously been applied to institutions engaged in novel activities such as fintech and crypto-asset services. This regulatory shift is expected to accelerate the path for fintechs seeking national bank charters or pursuing mergers with existing banks.

The change aligns with broader signals from federal regulators indicating a more welcoming posture toward new bank formations and fintech-bank combinations. Industry observers note that application pipelines are filling as firms move to take advantage of the friendlier environment. No specific financial terms are associated with the rule change, but it is expected to reduce compliance costs and processing times for applicants.

The rule is part of a broader regulatory recalibration that includes OCC guidance on crypto-asset custody and congressional interest in promoting competition through de novo bank formations.