New OCC Chief Jonathan Gould Brings Crypto Experience to U.S. Banking Regulator

Jonathan Gould has officially stepped into one of the most powerful roles in U.S. banking, and the crypto world is paying attention. As reported by financial commentator Mario Nawfal, Gould has just been approved to lead the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the top federal agency that regulates national banks. His pro-crypto stance and bold views on deregulation are already stirring conversation across Wall Street, Washington, and Web3.

From Wall Street to Web3, and Now Washington

Gould’s résumé is anything but traditional. Before taking the reins at the OCC, he worked at a crypto firm and previously represented banking powerhouses like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs. This mix of experience gives him a rare inside-out view of both traditional finance and emerging tech, and it’s a big reason why his appointment is drawing such strong reactions.

To supporters, Gould is a modern thinker ready to cut through outdated red tape and help U.S. finance innovate. To critics, he’s too close to big banks and the crypto industry to regulate them fairly.

A Regulator Who Wants Banks to Take More Risks?

One of Gould’s key beliefs is that post-2008 financial rules, while necessary at the time, have gone too far. He argues that the heavy restrictions placed on banks after the global financial crisis have made them too cautious, and that’s stalling progress in areas like tech innovation and credit access.

“Banks have become afraid to take smart risks,” Gould said during confirmation hearings. “That hesitation is limiting growth, especially in sectors like digital finance.”

While many agree that innovation is essential, some Democrats worry that Gould’s deregulatory approach could expose the system to new risks. There’s concern he might roll back key consumer protections or allow banks to dive too quickly into volatile markets like crypto.

Crypto Industry Applauds the Move

If there’s one corner of the finance world that’s celebrating Gould’s appointment, it’s crypto.

For years, blockchain companies have struggled with unclear U.S. regulations, often facing legal gray areas or long delays in licensing. Gould’s arrival at the OCC brings hope that the rules might soon be updated, and simplified, to reflect how crypto actually works today.

“He understands the space and isn’t afraid to modernize outdated frameworks,” one startup founder said on X, reacting to the news.

Gould’s background in digital assets also sets him apart from previous OCC heads, who usually came from purely traditional finance or legal backgrounds. That shift could make a real difference when it comes to building fairer, more innovation-friendly rules.

What Happens Next?

As Gould settles into the job, all eyes will be on how he balances innovation with responsibility. Will he help banks embrace blockchain without repeating the mistakes of the past? Can he make crypto more accessible while still protecting consumers?

Only time will tell, but one thing’s clear: Gould isn’t here to play it safe. And for an industry caught between government pushback and rapid global growth, that might be exactly what’s needed.