Charles Schwab Announces 2026 Launch of Digital Asset Trading Services

TL;DR

• Charles Schwab will launch spot trading for bitcoin and ethereum in the first half of 2026, following a gradual rollout that will start internally.
• The company is considering competitive crypto fees; an aggressive model could put pressure on traditional exchanges, given that Schwab already offers commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs.
• Schwab aims to grow through strategic acquisitions, such as the $660 million purchase of Forge Global, and is evaluating opportunities in digital asset companies.

Charles Schwab is preparing to enter the digital asset market and expand its presence through strategic acquisitions. CEO Rick Wurster announced at the Reuters Next conference in New York that the company will offer spot trading for bitcoin and ethereum during the first half of 2026, driven by client demand that can no longer be ignored.

The rollout will follow a phased approach. It will first be tested internally with employees, then opened to a selected group of clients, and finally extended to the general public. The goal is to ensure the experience is stable and scalable before reaching millions of investors.

Charles Schwab Could Offer Commission-Free Crypto Trading

The company is carefully evaluating its fee policy; since Schwab already provides commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, a competitive crypto model could pressure traditional exchanges. Bloomberg estimated that fees below 50 basis points could force the industry to reconsider margins, especially with bitcoin spot ETFs already available at tight spreads.

Beyond trading, Schwab seeks growth through acquisitions. Wurster noted that the company will remain open to acquisitions that add valuable capabilities for its clients and strengthen its offerings. The firm recently acquired Forge Global for $660 million to capitalize on growing demand for access to pre-IPO companies and stated that it would consider digital asset firms if the opportunities align with its strategy and come at the right price.

Outstanding Performance

Schwab’s financial performance supports its plans. In October, the company reported earnings above expectations, reaching record levels of client assets and increased trading revenue. In the fourth quarter, the daily average of trades exceeded the levels seen during the rest of the year, and client balances grew more than anticipated, driven by market recovery: the S&P 500 rose 16.5% and the Nasdaq 21% year to date. Wurster highlighted that many clients are seeking to protect their wealth, reinforcing the rationale for expanding the trading and service offerings.

Schwab is positioning itself to compete in the digital market and offer alternatives to investors seeking exposure to bitcoin, ethereum, and emerging companies