Custodia Bank Challenges Fed’s Denial of Master Account in 10th Circuit Court

• Custodia Bank is currently challenging a Wyoming federal court ruling that allows the Federal Reserve to deny it a master account.
• This appeal marks a significant moment in the ongoing debates over state and federal banking regulations.
• The case has garnered attention due to the involvement of experienced Supreme Court attorneys representing Custodia Bank.

Custodia Bank takes legal action to challenge a federal ruling that denies it a master account, emphasizing state banking rights.

Custodia Bank Submits Appeal in 10th Circuit Court

In its opening brief to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, Custodia Bank outlined its reasons for contesting the Wyoming judge’s decision. The bank’s CEO Caitlin Long has enlisted the help of two seasoned Supreme Court attorneys to argue the case, highlighting the importance of maintaining the dual banking system.

Debate Over Dual Banking System

The argument centers on whether the Federal Reserve’s authority to deny master accounts to state-chartered banks compromises the dual banking system, which allows banks to choose between state and federal charters. Custodia’s legal team cited previous cases like Cantero v. Bank of America to stress that the United States operates under a dual banking framework composed of federal and state systems.

Potential Violation of the Monetary Control Act

Additionally, Custodia Bank’s lawyers argue that denying a master account to state-chartered banks may infringe on the Monetary Control Act (MCA). According to the MCA, state-chartered banks are entitled to fair access to the Federal Reserve’s services. The legal brief underscores that the MCA uses the term “shall,” indicating mandatory access to Federal Reserve services for non-member depository institutions.

Conclusion

Custodia Bank’s appeal in the 10th Circuit Court not only challenges a specific court ruling but also raises broader questions about the balance of power between state and federal banking systems. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the banking industry, particularly for state-chartered institutions seeking fair access to federal services. All eyes will be on the appeals court as it deliberates on this pivotal case.