Charles Schwab commits to launch crypto trading in H1 2026

Charles Schwab’s CEO, Rick Wurster, said on Thursday that the firm plans to launch crypto trading in the first half of 2026. He previously mentioned that clients want crypto to sit next to their stocks and bonds as Schwab prepares to roll out BTC and ETH trading.

Wurster made the reveal at the firm’s annual event for RIAs, where they discussed the need for financial services firms to prioritize convenience. The investment company also discussed the potential for artificial intelligence avatars and the rise in gambling in the U.S., which it says is being mistaken for investing.

U.S. regulatory clarity  gives way for Charles Schwab’s crypto initiative

Wurster stated that there are numerous ways for clients to invest in crypto, and Charles Schwab provides insights and education on the industry. The firm’s CEO announced that it will initially focus on trading Bitcoin and Ethereum. He confirmed that it’ll be available on the company’s Thinkorswim platform, followed shortly after on Schwab.com and mobile.

The tech executive also disclosed that the fine will not be applied to memecoin trading. He opts to leave that field for other players in the sector.

Wurster added that the investment management firm plans to offer direct support to crypto investors. At the time of publication, Charles Schwab currently manages approximately $11 trillion in client assets on its balance sheet. The firm said it aims to leverage its established resources to offer secure and efficient trading services.

The Texas brokerage’s initiative follows a friendlier crypto backdrop under the Trump administration. The OCC and FDIC have already confirmed that financial institutions can provide crypto trading, custody, and stablecoin services without requiring special approval, as long as they manage the associated risks.

Wurster also acknowledged that, from a regulatory standpoint, nothing is preventing the firm from moving forward with its cryptocurrency initiative. Tyrone V. Toss Jr., a financial consultant with 401 Financial, mentioned that Charles Schwab’s crypto trading launch is on track. Still, there is acknowledged nervousness about ensuring the tech and operations are seamless.

Ric Edelman, CEO of the Digital Assets Council of Financial Professionals, also agreed that the regulatory landscape for financial institutions is clearing. Edelman, who is advising Schwab on its crypto launch, believes there will be more regulatory clarity to come, expecting legislation in a few months to complete the picture. He argued that it will help every player in the field, including banks, brokerage firms, custodians, asset managers, and wealth advisors, to engage seamlessly.

Wurster also revealed that the firm plans to roll out the crypto trading services in a strategic manner. He wants to have people pilot and test it, and later roll it out to both a small group of clients and a large group of clients.

Charles Schwab launches Advisor Services business

Charles Schwab’s top official confirmed that the offer will be a strong differentiator because it will allow clients to access crypto directly alongside their existing investments and the bank’s capabilities. Edelman also championed Wurster’s leadership, stating that he has been working closely with his crypto team to help develop their offerings and capabilities.

Wurster disclosed that the firm’s Advisor Services business is deepening relationships with the 16,000 RIA companies it serves to build a broader support ecosystem that extends beyond custody. He also acknowledged that the brokerage has expanded its lending support, alternative capabilities, and its institutional, no-transaction-fee mutual fund platform to include funds from nearly 60 managers, offering clients no transaction fees.

The asset manager also launched Advisor ProDirect to help breakaway advisers on their path to independence. Wurster added that the firm supported the largest adviser transition in the history of its industry by integrating OpenArc to its platform in September.

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