Insights.
Plain answers to the questions fintechs ask us most, from the people who do the work.
Featured tool
U.S. bank charter tracker.
Every U.S. bank and trust charter application from 2025–26, searchable, filterable and linked to source.
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How many U.S. banks can actually bank you?
Most fintechs can name one or two. The real number is larger, and it decides your terms.
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Named vs. virtual accounts
A “U.S. account” in someone else's name is not the same as your own.
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Do I need a money-movement license to go direct to a sponsor bank?
Not strictly. But almost every bank expects one.
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How much money does it take to start a bank?
Less a number than a test: enough capital to survive your own plan.
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National trust bank or national bank?
Same regulator. Very different powers, costs and timelines.
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What each charter status actually means
Approved is not the same as open. Know the difference before you sign.
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What is a Fed master account?
Direct access to the Fed, and why a charter does not guarantee one.
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