Which brokers reopened crypto ETF access?

TLDR

The brokers that reopened access to crypto ETFs this week were led by Vanguard, which is now allowing clients to trade crypto-focused ETFs and mutual funds on its brokerage platform, and Bank of America, which broadened access by letting its wealth advisers recommend crypto ETPs to clients starting in January, expanding availability across Merrill and Private Bank channels.

1. Vanguard: reopened platform access to Bitcoin, Ether, XRP and Solana ETF wrappers this week per a detailed update. See the Vanguard move.
2. Bank of America: will allow advisers at Merrill, Merrill Edge and Private Bank to recommend crypto ETPs from Jan 5, expanding access. See the Bank of America update.

Deep Dive

1. Vanguard Reopens

Vanguard reversed its long-standing ban and will now let over 50 million brokerage clients trade third-party crypto ETFs and mutual funds. Reports note coverage for funds tied to Bitcoin, Ether, XRP and Solana, treated similarly to gold ETFs on the platform. This is a material shift from prior policy and removes the last major holdout among large retail brokerages. The change is outlined in a widely cited report on the Vanguard move.

2. Bank of America Broadens

Separately, Bank of America said its wealth advisers can recommend crypto exchange-traded products to clients starting Jan 5 across Merrill, Merrill Edge and Private Bank. Previously, access was limited or client-initiated in certain tiers; this shift formalizes recommendations and normalizes portfolio inclusion discussions for a broader client set. Details are in the Bank of America update.

Conclusion

This weeks reopening and expansion came primarily from Vanguards platform reversal and Bank of Americas adviser-driven access. Combined, they reduce remaining frictions for mainstream investors seeking regulated crypto exposure via ETFs, and they likely increase the role of advice-led allocations alongside self-directed buying.