Charles Schwab Plans Spot Bitcoin and Ether Trading Launch in First Half of 2026

Charles Schwab is preparing to launch spot crypto trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum in the first half of 2026, marking a major step in its expansion into digital assets.

The new service will be offered through Charles Schwab Premier Bank, SSB, allowing clients to buy and sell the two largest cryptocurrencies directly within their brokerage accounts. The firm has also opened a waitlist for early access to its upcoming Schwab Crypto account, designed to integrate crypto trading alongside traditional investments such as stocks and bonds.

Client Demand Drives Unified Investment Platform Strategy

Chief Executive Officer Rick Wurster previously indicated that growing client demand influenced the company’s decision to move into spot crypto trading. The initiative aims to create a unified investment experience where digital assets appear within the same portfolio view as conventional financial instruments.

Schwab’s Scale Positions It Against Crypto-Native Exchanges

With approximately $11.9 trillion in client assets reported in 2025, Schwab enters the crypto market with a substantial investor base. The company already supports cryptocurrency-linked exchange-traded funds and offers Bitcoin futures trading, along with the Schwab Crypto Thematic Index (STCE), which tracks companies tied to the digital asset sector.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.