Morgan Stanley Plans Crypto Expansion, Awaits Regulatory Green Light

Morgan Stanley is exploring ways to introduce cryptocurrency services in the U.S., according to CEO Ted Pick.
Speaking on January 23, Pick noted that the bank is evaluating how to integrate crypto offerings while adhering to strict regulatory requirements. He emphasized that collaborating with the U.S. Treasury and other regulators will be key to ensuring these services are implemented securely and responsibly.
Pick also touched on the evolving nature of cryptocurrency markets, highlighting the importance of time in building trust and maturity. He remarked that market liquidity often appears in unexpected forms, referencing the recent surge in popularity of memecoins tied to Donald and Melania Trump.
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Morgan Stanley’s subsidiary, E-Trade, is reportedly preparing to launch spot crypto trading services, aligning with expectations of a more favorable regulatory climate. However, the initiative will require approval from key regulators, including the Federal Reserve, given Morgan Stanley’s status as a traditional financial institution.
This move reflects a broader trend in the traditional finance sector. Charles Schwab, another major brokerage, has also shown interest in entering the spot crypto market, with its CEO, Rick Wurster, suggesting the firm would act if U.S. regulatory conditions improve.
As traditional financial institutions like Morgan Stanley and Charles Schwab explore crypto, the market is seeing increased momentum toward bridging traditional finance and digital assets, provided the regulatory landscape supports these ambitions.