TLDR
Two big names just opened access. Vanguards brokerage now lets clients trade crypto?linked ETFs and mutual funds that hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana, reversing its long?standing stance on its US platform.
- Vanguard: crypto ETF and mutual fund trading is enabled on its brokerage platform.
- Bank of America: Merrill advisors can recommend four spot Bitcoin ETPs across Merrill, Private Bank, and Merrill Edge starting Jan 5, 2026 %%CKPROTECTED0%%.
Deep Dive
1. Vanguard Opens Its Platform
Vanguard is now allowing trading of crypto?focused ETFs and mutual funds on its US brokerage platform, covering products that primarily hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana. The firm frames these as non?core assets similar to gold and does not plan to launch its own crypto funds, but it will permit third?party products that meet regulatory standards per the announcement.
Vanguards scale can broaden retail access to spot crypto exposure through regulated ETFs, potentially adding steadier, long?horizon flows.
2. Bank of America Expands Advisor Access
Bank of America will allow Merrill advisors to recommend four spot Bitcoin exchange?traded products (Bitwise BITB, Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust, Fidelity FBTC, and BlackRock IBIT) starting Jan 5, 2026. The funds will be covered by Merrills CIO, and availability spans traditional brokerage, selected fee?based, and certain retirement accounts at Merrill, the Private Bank, and Merrill Edge, with training and guidance requirements for advisors according to the firms update.
Advice?driven channels opening up can normalize crypto ETF allocations in diversified portfolios, though firms are emphasizing training and modest sizing due to volatility.
Conclusion
Brokerage distribution for crypto ETFs is widening. Vanguards policy shift enables self?directed access, while Bank of Americas advisor program brings guided allocations into mainstream wealth channels. Together, these moves lower frictions for regulated crypto exposure, with firms still applying compliance, education, and sizing guardrails.
