Charles Schwab Announces Strategic Move to Introduce Bitcoin and Ethereum Spot Trading by Mid-2026

Charles Schwab is preparing to make a significant leap into the world of digital currency by adding spot trading options for Bitcoin and Ethereum by mid-2026. CEO Rick Wurster made this announcement during the Reuters Next conference held in New York. Initial testing of the new trading service will commence with Schwab employees before gradually being rolled out to a select group of clientele.

The company’s approach to this new venture involves a multi-phase rollout plan that begins internally, intended to ensure a seamless transition into the cryptocurrency market. This strategic progression will eventually extend beyond employees, initially accommodating a limited number of clients before becoming available to a broader investor base. Wurster emphasized that this cautious approach is designed to iron out any operational kinks and measure early reception and success.

In addition to launching crypto trading, Schwab is contemplating potential mergers and acquisitions. According to Wurster, the company remains open to expanding its portfolio through strategic deals that can enhance client services and drive large-scale value. Although acquisitions within the cryptocurrency sector are being considered, any move would require favorable circumstances regarding both opportunity and valuation. While Wurster did not specifically mention any target firms, he indicated that this is an area under active consideration.

The anticipated integration of spot Bitcoin trading brings with it a focus on the pricing structure. Eric Balchunas, an ETF analyst from Bloomberg, highlighted fees as a crucial factor in this venture. Schwab’s decision to potentially price these trades below 52 basis points might disrupt current crypto exchange models. Balchunas compared this move to Schwab’s ecosystem of commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs, a policy that could pressure existing crypto exchanges accustomed to earning via fees.

Moreover, Schwab recently announced its acquisition of Forge Global, a private shares platform, in a deal valued at approximately $670 million. This investment aligns with growing investor demand for opportunities in pre-IPO companies, thereby expanding Schwab’s trading capabilities beyond public market offerings. This acquisition is a testament to Schwab’s vision of diversifying and enhancing the financial tools available to its clients.

Recent business activities also reflected Schwab’s robust year-end performance, with daily average trades showing a noticeable increase in the fourth quarter of 2025. The firm reported higher client balances, driven by favorable market conditions. Schwab’s third-quarter earnings even exceeded expectations, with a record level in client assets and a pronounced increase in trading revenue.

As Charles Schwab prepares to dive into cryptocurrency trading, these developments signal its commitment to innovation and adaptation to a new era of finance. The company’s strategic initiatives in the coming years are poised to not only broaden its service offerings but also potentially position Schwab as a significant player within the cryptocurrency trading space. As the 2026 rollout approaches, investors and competitors alike are watching closely to see how Schwab’s entry into digital currencies will unfold and impact the broader market landscape.