Which institution is tasked with chartering new banks in the United States?

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is responsible for chartering new banks in the United States, making it the correct answer. The OCC is an independent bureau of the Department of the Treasury and has the authority to grant charters to national banks and federal savings associations. This means that if an organization wants to operate as a national bank, it must go through the OCC to obtain the necessary charter.

The OCC also plays a critical role in ensuring that banks operate safely and soundly, adhering to federal laws and regulations. This oversight is crucial as it helps maintain public confidence in the banking system.

While other institutions, like the Federal Reserve, the Department of Treasury, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, have important roles in the regulation and oversight of banks, they do not handle the chartering process directly. The Federal Reserve focuses primarily on monetary policy and the overall stability of the financial system, while the Department of Treasury manages the federal finances and economic policy. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), on the other hand, insures deposits at banks and savings associations but does not charter banks.