Charles Schwab plans to introduce spot cryptocurrency trading within the next 12 months, responding to a surge in retail demand and recent regulatory changes. The firm, which is the largest custodian of crypto ETF assets globally, reported a 400% increase in traffic to its crypto education pages, with 70% of visitors being new clients. This move follows the revision of SAB 121, which removed capital requirements for bank holding companies, making direct crypto trading feasible. Schwab, overseeing approximately $11 trillion in assets, currently offers crypto exposure through ETFs, Bitcoin futures, and closed-end funds. However, executives highlighted that spot crypto trading is the missing component in their offerings. The firm is actively planning for this launch, with the possibility of an earlier rollout if conditions permit. Schwab's decision underscores its commitment to meeting growing client demand and leveraging its position as a trusted institution for regulated crypto exposure.