Finance

Swiss bank UBS closer to getting national bank charter for US franchise

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 15, 2026

2 min read

· Last updated: January 19, 2026

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Swiss bank UBS closer to getting national bank charter for US franchise
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Jan 15 (Reuters) - Swiss bank UBS is a step closer to getting a national bank charter for its U.S. franchise after receiving a first conditional approval, the company said on Thursday. "This milestone

UBS Advances Toward National Bank Charter Approval for U.S. Operations

UBS's Journey Toward U.S. Banking License

Jan 15 (Reuters) - Swiss bank UBS is a step closer to getting a national bank charter for its U.S. franchise after receiving a first conditional approval, the company said on Thursday.

Conditional Approval Received

"This milestone marks a significant step toward securing final approval of our National Bank Charter, reinforcing UBS's commitment to growth and strengthening our position as the premier global wealth manager in the U.S," a UBS spokesperson said.

Future Steps and Timeline

UBS applied for a full banking licence in the United States in October in a bid to grow its wealth management business in the U.S. even as regulators in Switzerland have sought to limit its reach abroad.

Significance of the License

The Swiss bank received conditional approval from the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, UBS said, which is the first step in the licensing process.

The second and final approval could follow in 2026, subject to UBS fulfilling several conditions set by U.S. authorities.

If granted, UBS would be the first Swiss bank to obtain such a licence in the United States, allowing it to match the full range of services offered by U.S. banks, including checking accounts, savings accounts and mortgages.

(Reporting by Federica Mileo in Barcelona; Editing by Susan Fenton)

Key Takeaways

  • UBS receives conditional approval for a US national bank charter.
  • The approval marks a significant step in UBS's US expansion.
  • Final approval could be granted by 2026, pending conditions.
  • UBS aims to offer full banking services in the US.
  • This would make UBS the first Swiss bank with a US national charter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is wealth management?
Wealth management is a financial advisory service that combines investment management, financial planning, and other financial services to help clients manage and grow their wealth.
What is a conditional approval?
Conditional approval is a preliminary approval granted by regulatory authorities, allowing a bank to proceed with certain actions, subject to meeting specific conditions.

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