Schwab Targets 2026 for Bitcoin and Ethereum Spot Trading Launch

Charles Schwab is moving deeper into digital assets, with CEO Rick Wurster confirming at the Reuters Next conference in New York that the brokerage plans to introduce spot Bitcoin and Ethereum trading in the first half of 2026. The rollout will follow a careful, phased approach, starting with internal employee testing before expanding to a small group of clients. Wurster emphasized that broader access for retail investors will come only after these controlled pilots validate the platform’s performance and security.

The CEO also highlighted that Schwab is preparing for additional dealmaking as part of its long-term growth strategy. While he expressed openness to acquiring a crypto company, Wurster made clear that any move would depend on finding the right opportunity at the right valuation. He declined to mention specific targets or confirm whether discussions are currently underway.

Schwab’s upcoming spot Bitcoin trading has already sparked debate around pricing. Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas noted that fees will be a critical factor, especially since Schwab’s stock and ETF trades are already offered at zero commission. Pricing spot crypto trades below 50 basis points could put pressure on major crypto exchanges, he argued, particularly when crypto ETFs already provide tight spreads despite carrying expense ratios.

This shift toward broader asset access follows Schwab’s announcement that it plans to acquire private-market platform Forge Global for $660 million. Wurster linked the deal to rising investor demand for pre-IPO investment opportunities, saying the acquisition will expand the range of alternative assets available to Schwab clients.

Wurster also pointed to improving customer activity in late 2025. Daily trading volumes in the fourth quarter exceeded earlier quarters, client balances climbed alongside market gains, and Schwab’s third-quarter earnings beat expectations with record client assets and stronger trading revenue.

With crypto integration, new acquisitions, and rising investor engagement, Schwab appears positioned to broaden its competitive footprint heading into 2026.