Financial services giant Charles Schwab is preparing to expand deeper into digital assets, announcing plans for an upcoming product that will allow customers to buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly through its platform.
The firm revealed that “Schwab Crypto™” is in development and will be offered through Charles Schwab Premier Bank, positioning the product as a gateway for retail investors seeking direct exposure to leading cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. The company has opened a waiting list for customers interested in early access, although availability will be subject to regulatory approval and eligibility requirements.
The move marks a notable shift for Schwab, which until now has limited crypto exposure to indirect investment vehicles. Currently, clients can access digital asset markets through exchange-traded products (ETPs), crypto-related stocks and thematic funds. Examples include publicly traded companies such as Coinbase, MicroStrategy, and Riot Platforms, as well as funds tied to blockchain and crypto industry performance.
All aboard the Charles Schwab Bitcoin train
Schwab’s entry into spot trading places it in more direct competition with established crypto platforms such as Coinbase, Robinhood and Webull.
CEO Rick Wurster first signaled the firm’s intention to enter spot crypto markets in late 2024, citing expectations of a changing regulatory environment under Donald Trump’s administration. The company has since positioned itself to move when conditions allowed for broader participation by traditional financial institutions.
Schwab is also preparing additional crypto-related products, including a potential stablecoin offering following the passage of the GENIUS stablecoin bill.
A recent report from Charles Schwab found that Bitcoin volatility has fallen significantly, with historical volatility falling to 42% in 2025 – about half of the 2021 level – making it comparable to or lower than major tech stocks like Tesla and Nvidia.
Despite fewer extreme swings, bitcoin is still experiencing sharp moves, including a 32% drop in 2025 and a 50% top-to-bottom drop over three years.
In the long term, volatility remains high compared to traditional assets. The report suggests bitcoin is maturing as it integrates into mainstream finance, with increasing institutional adoption and ETF development signaling increased acceptance.
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