In a significant move for traditional finance, Charles Schwab has announced plans to enable spot trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum by early 2026. This initiative marks the brokerage”s first direct entry into retail cryptocurrency markets, as confirmed by CEO Rick Wurster.
The rollout is set to begin with a limited pilot program, allowing a select group of internal users and customers to test the trading system before broader access is offered. Schwab, which oversees more than ten trillion dollars in client assets, is positioning itself as a major player in the evolving landscape of digital asset trading.
Wurster emphasized that the firm is currently establishing the necessary infrastructure and compliance frameworks while remaining vigilant about ongoing regulatory developments. This phased approach aims to ensure operational stability prior to full-scale implementation.
The introduction of spot trading at Schwab comes at a time when both Bitcoin and Ethereum have experienced a cooling period following a recent price rebound. On the day of this announcement, Bitcoin traded at approximately $93,301, slightly lower from its opening price, while Ethereum closed near $3,182.8, reflecting a minor decline as well.
Despite these fluctuations, the planned launch underscores how major financial institutions are increasingly integrating digital assets into their offerings. As the regulatory environment continues to evolve and demand from long-term investors rises, Schwab”s venture into cryptocurrency trading could reshape how retail investors access digital assets.
As the cryptocurrency market progresses through a cautious recovery phase, Schwab”s strategic move may represent a pivotal moment for both the firm and its clients, providing new opportunities for participation in the digital economy.
