Charles Schwab’s CEO Rick Wurster has revealed plans to offer direct spot Bitcoin trading services to clients, targeting an April 2026 launch. This development highlights Schwab’s cautious yet optimistic stance on expanding its digital asset offerings in response to a significant rise in investor interest.
Wurster pointed out that traffic to Schwab’s cryptocurrency website has surged by 400%, reflecting strong demand from investors eager to explore digital assets. He emphasized that the company’s ability to roll out spot crypto trading depends largely on a more favorable regulatory environment in the United States. “We are hopeful and likely to be able to launch direct spot crypto within the next 12 months,” Wurster said, adding that Schwab is making good progress toward this goal.
Since stepping into the CEO role in 2025, Wurster has guided Schwab toward deeper engagement with cryptocurrencies. While the firm already offers crypto-related products such as exchange-traded funds, closed-end funds, and Bitcoin futures, it has held off on spot trading until regulatory clarity improves. The recent re-election of Donald Trump is viewed by Schwab as a potential catalyst for a more supportive regulatory framework, which could accelerate the company’s crypto ambitions.
Earlier this year, Schwab partnered with the Trump Media and Technology Group to launch Truth.Fi, a financial platform combining traditional investment services with digital assets. Truth.Fi aims to provide clients with a comprehensive suite of products, including cryptocurrency custody and customized ETFs, catering to those concerned about censorship, privacy, and banking restrictions often linked to major tech companies.
The introduction of spot Bitcoin trading by Schwab is expected to boost market liquidity and enhance legitimacy for crypto investors, positioning the brokerage as a stronger competitor to platforms like Robinhood and Webull. This move also reflects a wider trend of traditional financial institutions integrating digital assets to meet growing client demand.
Following the announcement, Bitcoin prices rose and trading volumes increased across major exchanges, signaling strong market enthusiasm. Industry observers are also watching to see if Schwab will expand its offering beyond Bitcoin to include popular altcoins such as XRP, Dogecoin, and Shiba Inu, as investor preferences continue to evolve.
In summary, Charles Schwab’s planned launch of spot Bitcoin trading by April 2026 marks a significant step in bridging traditional finance with the digital asset world, driven by rising client interest and anticipated improvements in regulatory conditions.
