Schwab says it may buy crypto firms if valuations fit; plans spot BTC/ETH trading in 2026
Charles Schwab CEO Rick Wurster said the brokerage is open to acquiring crypto businesses if pricing is attractive, while expanding its crypto services. Schwab plans to roll out spot Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) trading in the first half of 2026 after phased testing, is considering launching a stablecoin, and aims to let clients consolidate crypto holdings on its platform, where they already hold about $25 billion in crypto ETPs. Wurster spoke at the Reuters NEXT conference, emphasizing strategic deals that strengthen client offerings. Primary keywords: Charles Schwab, crypto acquisitions, spot BTC trading, spot ETH trading, stablecoin. Secondary/semantic keywords: brokerage expansion, digital assets, ETPs, valuations, product rollout.
Bullish
Schwab signaling openness to crypto acquisitions and committing to spot BTC/ETH trading is likely bullish for market sentiment. A major, trusted brokerage entering spot crypto trading and potentially issuing a stablecoin increases institutional legitimacy, widens retail access, and can boost demand for BTC and ETH. The announcement that Schwab already holds about $25 billion in crypto ETPs indicates an existing client base and flows that could migrate to spot products, tightening supply on exchanges. Historically, large financial firms launching crypto products (for example, Coinbase listings, ETF approvals, or broker integrations) have correlated with positive price moves and higher volumes. Short-term, expect improved sentiment, increased order flow, and potential price spikes as traders anticipate new retail/institutional on‑ramps. Volatility may rise around concrete product launch dates and testing phases. Long-term, broader access via major brokerages tends to support higher baseline demand and market maturation, though impact depends on execution, regulatory developments, and actual product adoption.