Donald Trump aide's crypto-friendly bank gets US approval to operate — Can Indians open accounts at Erebor Bank?

Core Insights - Erebor Bank has received conditional approval from US regulators to operate, marking a significant development for tech and crypto-friendly banking in the country [1][3] - The bank is founded by notable tech billionaires, including Palmer Luckey and Joe Lonsdale, who have connections to the Trump administration [2] - Erebor Bank aims to serve tech companies focused on cryptocurrencies and other innovative sectors, targeting the US "innovation economy" [4] Company Overview - Erebor Bank is based in Columbus, Ohio, and was established in 2023 by a group of tech entrepreneurs [2] - The bank's primary focus will be on businesses involved in cryptocurrencies, artificial intelligence, defense, and manufacturing [4] - Other investors in Erebor Bank include Peter Thiel's Founders Fund and Haun Ventures [3] Regulatory Context - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has indicated a willingness to allow banks to engage in digital asset activities, provided they are conducted safely [3] - Erebor Bank is part of a growing trend of firms seeking banking licenses to operate in the digital asset space, alongside companies like Stripe and Coinbase [5]