Charles Schwab will launch spot trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum in the first half of 2026, available to U.S. residents excluding New York and Louisiana. Clients can register for updates and potential early access via a dedicated online sign-up form.

With over $12.2 trillion in assets under management, this entry into spot crypto trading represents a significant expansion of Schwab’s product suite that could boost trading volumes and client retention. It marks a shift from offering only ETPs and equity exposures toward direct custody and trading of digital assets.

Schwab currently provides crypto exposure through exchange-traded products and select crypto-related equities, such as those linked to major crypto exchanges and Bitcoin treasury firms. The spot offering will allow clients to hold actual Bitcoin and Ethereum directly on the platform.

The firm has emphasized the importance of regulatory clarity before expanding its crypto services and has expressed interest in offering stablecoin exposure for blockchain transactions. Future stablecoin integration could further diversify Schwab’s digital asset offerings and transaction capabilities.