According to Reuters, stablecoin issuer Circle (CRCL) has applied for a U.S. national bank charter. If approved, it will be able to independently manage USDC reserves and custody crypto assets on behalf of institutional clients. The entity will be named First National Digital Currency Bank, N.A. This move follows Circle's successful IPO this month, marking its further integration into the traditional financial system. (The Block) [Odaily Planet Daily]