Story perspectives

Charles Schwab Launches Crypto Trading for Retail Clients

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (Schwab) announced a phased rollout of Schwab Crypto, allowing retail clients to trade Bitcoin and Ethereum directly on Schwab platforms, including Schwab.com and thinkorswim.
The service integrates crypto trading with traditional investments and offers educational resources plus 24/7 support.
Schwab will charge 75 basis points per trade.
Future plans include adding more cryptocurrencies and enabling transfers for existing digital assets.

History

Historical Context

The launch of Bitcoin futures by the Chicago Board Options Exchange in December 2017 marked a significant milestone in cryptocurrency trading, attracting over 5,000 contracts on its first day. This event followed the contentious Bitcoin Cash fork in August 2017, which highlighted the divide within the Bitcoin community. The growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies by traditional financial institutions, like Schwab's integration of Bitcoin and Ethereum, signals a potential shift in investment strategies.

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Story summary

Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (Schwab) announced a phased rollout of Schwab Crypto, allowing retail clients to trade Bitcoin and Ethereum directly on Schwab platforms, including Schwab.com and thinkorswim.
The service integrates crypto trading with traditional investments and offers educational resources plus 24/7 support.
Schwab will charge 75 basis points per trade.
Future plans include adding more cryptocurrencies and enabling transfers for existing digital assets.

1 / 2