Charles Schwab to Launch Bitcoin, Ethereum Trading in 2026

Charles Schwab, the major U.S. brokerage firm managing nearly 12 trillion dollars in client assets, plans to launch direct spot trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum in the first half of 2026. The service, called Schwab Crypto, will allow eligible customers to buy and sell the two largest cryptocurrencies through the firm's existing brokerage platform, integrating them alongside traditional investments like stocks and bonds.

The rollout will occur in phases to ensure a smooth introduction. Employees will gain early access during an internal testing period, followed by a limited group of invited clients, before expanding to all qualified users. The platform will operate via Charles Schwab Premier Bank, SSB, a regulated banking subsidiary, eliminating the need for separate crypto wallets or third-party exchanges. Not all applicants will qualify, and the service will initially be unavailable in New York and Louisiana due to state-specific regulatory requirements.

CEO Rick Wurster confirmed the timeline during recent company disclosures, stating that the firm remains on track for the 2026 launch. He first signaled the initiative in late 2024, citing evolving regulatory conditions under...