- Federal Reserve considers limited payment access for Ripple, Circle.
- Potential boost for crypto payment integration with Fed systems.
- Regulatory decisions could impact financial stability and trust.
Governor Christopher J. Waller of the Federal Reserve Board introduced the ‘skinny master account’ concept on October 21, 2025, during the Payments Innovation Conference, targeting Ripple and Circle for limited Federal Reserve access.
The proposal could streamline financial operations for crypto firms, enhancing payments security and efficiency. Immediate market reactions remain subdued pending further regulatory approval.
The Federal Reserve Board is evaluating a new proposal for “skinny master accounts” allowing limited Fed payment services. The initiative aims to support payment innovation by institutions like Ripple and Circle, focusing on enhanced security and faster payment systems.
Governor Christopher J. Waller, representing the Federal Reserve, highlighted these plans at a recent conference. Ripple and Circle may gain access to the Fed’s payment rails, offering direct reserve holding capabilities for their stablecoins, pending eligibility evaluations.
Immediate effects on the market could include heightened interest in crypto payment systems. Such access might enhance crypto-backed transactions, providing novel options for financial technology firms and potentially streamlining payment processes for users.
Securing Fed access might result in significant shifts in financial transaction methods. Political and regulatory impacts are anticipated, as well, considering potential legislative reviews and adjustments affecting the scope of cryptocurrencies in national payment systems.
Eligibility for such access remains contingent on regulations under the Federal Reserve Act. This proposal echoes past models but intends to revitalize crypto integration in financial ecosystems by offering faster, safer payment alternatives without full financial system privileges.
“The skinny master account concept would allow for limited Fed payment services for eligible institutions focused on payments innovation.” – Christopher J. Waller, Governor, Federal Reserve BoardThe move could have widespread regulatory implications, possibly encouraging more institutions to seek crypto-integrated systems. Historical trends indicate potential litigations as precedents have seen delays in crypto-related master account approvals, emphasizing the shift needed in regulation approaches.
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