Vanguard’s CEO, Salim Ramji, had previously ruled out crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the platform as recently as August. However, due to consistent demand for crypto, he has now reversed course, and the massive asset manager will begin allowing clients to trade crypto ETFs starting today.
The Demand for Crypto ETFs #
Responding to persistent demand from retail investors and institutional money for crypto ETFs and investment funds, Vanguard will begin accommodating these requests starting Tuesday. Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas confirmed this development on X.
The selected assets available for investment will be Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana, as they meet regulatory standards. Vanguard will treat these funds similarly to gold funds. The firm will not venture into memecoins and does not plan to launch its own crypto ETFs or investment funds.
Vanguard stated that it serves millions of investors with diverse needs and risk profiles. The firm aims to be a broker that provides clients the opportunity to invest in products of their own choosing.
Vanguard #
Vanguard is the second-largest asset manager in the world, trailing only BlackRock. According to its latest figures, the firm manages over $11 trillion in assets globally.
Vanguard had previously excluded crypto ETFs due to concerns about the volatility and speculative nature of these assets. In November 2021, the firm had completely blocked trading in these products on its platform.
Former CEO Tim Buckley was strongly opposed to introducing Bitcoin into long-term portfolios.
“Someone saving for retirement should not be buying speculative assets.”
In May 2024, this outgoing CEO still ruled out such a possibility, and the new CEO, Ramji, did the same in August 2025.
What Does This Move Mean for Crypto? #
Vanguard’s decision to allow crypto ETFs can be seen as positive news for the crypto market, as it signifies greater accessibility to these products for investors. Analysts note that this could potentially lead to additional capital inflows into the selected crypto assets, given that Vanguard is one of the largest asset managers in the world.
However, it remains uncertain how many investors will actually utilize this option and what the precise impact will be on the broader market. Vanguard emphasizes that its platform offers products that align with the diverse needs and risk profiles of its clients, without creating specific expectations about market movements.