Custodia Bank Files Appeal In Fight Against US Federal Reserve

Custodia Bank has filed an Appeal against the ruling in favor of the Federal Reserve in the long-drawn fight for a master account
By Godfrey Benjamin
BitBoy and NBA Star Jimmy Butler To Settle Binance Class Action

Highlights

  • Custodia Bank is not giving up in its fight against the Federal Reserve
  • Court ruled against the firm's bid to open a Master Account
  • This case is a major precedent setter for crypto banks

As promised, Custodia Bank has filed a notice of intent to appeal against a ruling from the court that affirmed the Federal Reserve’s rejection of its application for a master account.

Advertisement
Advertisement

US Federal Reserve Bags First Win

The Wyoming-based crypto bank made this Appeals move after stating that many financial institutions were discriminating against crypto businesses. For context, Wyoming District Judge Scott Skavdahl ruled in favour of the Federal Reserve last month against Custodia Bank concerning the access to Master Account and its compliance with the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). 

In the judge’s opinion, it is well under the jurisdiction and discretion of the apex bank to reject Custodia’s bid for a master account. On the other hand, the court identified that the bank did not provide sufficient proof to support its claim that the Fed’s Board of Governors was illegally leaning on the Kansas City branch to reject the Custodia Bank’s bid for the master account which.

Noteworthy, if the master account request is granted, it would let Custodia Bank directly access the Fed and not need intermediary banks. 

“Unless Federal Reserve Banks possess discretion to deny or reject a master account application, state chartering laws would be the only layer of insulation for the U.S. financial system,” Judge Scott Skavdahl wrote in March. 

“And in that scenario, one can readily foresee a ‘race to the bottom’ among states and politicians to attract business by reducing state chartering burdens through lax legislation, allowing minimally regulated institutions to gain ready access to the central bank’s balances and Federal Reserve services.”

Advertisement
Advertisement

Mass Industry Support For Custodia Bank

After Custodia Bank filed for the master account, it felt that the Federal Reserve was taking too long to make a decision. This delay prompted Custodia to file its first suit against the Fed. It moved to refile the suit after the Fed formally denied its master account application. 

Meanwhile, VanEck advisor Gabor Gurbacs agrees with Custodia Bank CEO Caitlin Long’s claims of banks discriminating against crypto businesses. He, therefore, urged policymakers to crackdown on these discriminatory practices by U.S. banks. 

Similarly, Senator Cynthia Lummis has also voiced her dissatisfaction with the court’s ruling against Custodia, stressing the necessity to follow law passed by Congress for the issue of master accounts to Special Purpose Depository Institutions (SPDIs) in Wyoming.

Advertisement
Godfrey Benjamin
Benjamin Godfrey is a blockchain enthusiast and journalists who relish writing about the real life applications of blockchain technology and innovations to drive general acceptance and worldwide integration of the emerging technology. His desires to educate people about cryptocurrencies inspires his contributions to renowned blockchain based media and sites. Benjamin Godfrey is a lover of sports and agriculture. Follow him on X, Linkedin
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.