Charles Schwab Announces Spot Crypto Trading Rollout in First Half of 2026

In a move signalling a significant shift for traditional investing platforms, Charles Schwab Corp. CEO Rick Wurster confirmed that the brokerage plans to launch spot cryptocurrency trading services in the first half of 2026. The announcement positions Schwab to directly compete in the digital-asset arena, expanding beyond its current offerings of ETFs and futures towards direct trading of coins such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Why this matters for retail and institutional investors

Schwab’s entry into spot crypto trading marks a pivotal moment: a major wealth-management firm with trillions in client assets is formally embracing digital-asset access. The company’s third-quarter results reflect strong momentum for example, Schwab reported a substantial increase in net new assets and growth in new accounts, bolstering its ability to invest in digital-asset infrastructure.


By integrating spot crypto trading, Schwab will offer clients a unified platform that spans equities, bonds, ETFs and now direct-crypto exposure. Many investors have long held separate accounts at crypto-native platforms; Schwab’s move could encourage clients to consolidate across asset types. CEO Wurster noted that the firm wants to meet clients where they are and provide expanded asset choice. 

Details of the planned rollout

According to Schwab’s public disclosures, the spot trading rollout is targeted for “the first half of 2026,” with April cited in some reports as a possible launch month. The offering is expected initially to support major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, with potential expansion into other digital-assets or tokenised instruments depending on regulatory clarity and internal infrastructure development.


The firm emphasises that its launch will depend on favourable regulatory conditions and operational readiness. Wurster acknowledged the risks inherent in crypto trading but also stressed the growing interest among Schwab’s client base. 

Strategic implications for Schwab and the industry

• Competitive positioning: Schwab moves directly into the digital-asset space, catching up with other brokerages and fintechs that already offer crypto trading. This could attract younger investors or clients seeking “all-in-one” platforms.
  
  

• Regulatory-risk management: By launching through an established brokerage, clients may perceive greater oversight and trust compared to standalone crypto exchanges. Schwab’s bank charter and regulatory relationships could be an advantage.
  
  

• Revenue and client retention: The move may help retain clients who currently transact crypto elsewhere, and potentially capture new users looking for integrated investment services. It could also diversify Schwab’s revenue base in a low-rate environment.
  
  

• Market signal for digital-asset adoption: A major incumbent offering direct crypto access sends a broader signal of institutionalisation of the asset class. This may drive further infrastructure, custody services and regulatory clarity across the industry.

Risks and considerations for investors and the market

While the announcement is significant, several caveats apply:

• Regulation is still a variable: The timing and scope of offerings hinge on regulatory developments around crypto custody, trading, and asset classification. If regulatory hurdles emerge, launch plans could be delayed.
  
  

• Product execution matters: Successful rollout will depend on user experience, liquidity, asset selection and timeframe. If Schwab’s offering lags fintech competitors, the impact may be muted.
  
  

• Crypto market risk remains: Even with institutional access, crypto assets remain highly volatile and may not align with all investors’ risk tolerance or portfolio objectives. Schwab has acknowledged this. 

What to watch in 2026

• Whether Schwab sticks to its projected timeline and launches spot crypto trading in early 2026 as planned.

• How Schwab’s crypto offering is priced, structured and integrated (e.g., whether custody is handled internally or through a partner).

• Changes in regulation or SEC guidance that could influence Schwab’s roll-out or the broader crypto-brokerage space.

• Client uptake: how many users shift to Schwab’s platform for crypto trading, and how this affects account activity and retention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What exactly did Charles Schwab announce regarding crypto trading?
A1: Schwab’s CEO Rick Wurster stated that the firm plans to launch spot cryptocurrency trading (direct buying and selling of digital coins) in the first half of 2026. 

Q2: Which cryptocurrencies will Schwab offer at launch?
A2: While Schwab has not confirmed a detailed list, reports suggest that major coins such as Bitcoin and Ethereum will be among the first offerings.

Q3: Why is this move important for investors?
A3: Investors using Schwab will gain direct access to crypto alongside traditional investments, potentially simplifying portfolio management. It also signals a broader institutional acceptance of digital assets.

Q4: Does this mean Schwab is recommending crypto to all clients?
A4: No. Schwab emphasises that crypto still carries meaningful risk and that each investor needs to assess their own situation. The launch is about offering access, not constituting investment advice. 

Q5: Could regulatory delays impact Schwab’s crypto launch?
A5: Yes. The timing and scope of Schwab’s rollout depend on regulatory clarity and operational readiness. Any setbacks in regulation or internal infrastructure could delay the launch.

Q6: What impact could this announcement have on the wider crypto industry?
A6: Schwab offering spot crypto trading may encourage other large brokerages to follow, increase institutional adoption of crypto, and accelerate development of custody, compliance and ancillary services in the digital-asset sector.