OCC Adopts Stablecoin Rule Including AML and Sanctions Compliance Certifications

The OCC adopted final regulations implementing the GENIUS Act for payment stablecoin activities under its jurisdiction. Permitted payment stablecoin issuers must certify implementation of AML and economic sanctions compliance programs within 180 days after application approval and annually thereafter. The initial certification must come from the board; subsequent certifications may come from the board, an appropriate board committee, or the BSA officer. Separate Treasury-coordinated rulemaking will address substantive BSA, AML, and OFAC sanctions requirements. Announced October 21 and published October 23, 2026, the rule takes effect on January 18, 2027.