Morgan Stanley is broadening cryptocurrency access across its entire client base, becoming the first major U.S. bank to open digital asset investments to all account types, including retirement portfolios.
Beginning October 15, financial advisors at the firm will be allowed to offer crypto funds to any customer, ending previous restrictions that limited participation to high-net-worth investors with at least $1.5 million in assets and aggressive risk profiles.
The move follows a broader policy shift under the Trump administration, which has eased regulatory pressure on the crypto sector. It also comes shortly after Morgan Stanley revealed plans for its E-Trade subsidiary to enable direct trading of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana.
With more than $8.2 trillion in client assets, Morgan Stanley’s decision represents a major endorsement of crypto as a mainstream investment category. However, the firm is imposing internal safeguards: advisors must use an automated system to ensure clients don’t become overexposed to the volatile market.
The bank’s global investment committee recently recommended a maximum 4% crypto allocation, depending on investor goals. Currently, advisors can offer Bitcoin funds from BlackRock and Fidelity, though Morgan Stanley is reviewing additional products as it gradually expands its digital asset lineup.