A New History! Vanguard Opens Access to Bitcoin and Crypto ETF

Source: TokocryptoBlog
Original Title: A New Era! Vanguard Opens Access to Bitcoin and Crypto ETFs
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A surprising decision has come from Vanguard, the world’s second-largest asset manager, which has finally opened trading access to crypto-related ETFs and mutual funds, including Bitcoin, for its 50 million brokerage clients. This major move, first reported by Bloomberg, marks the most drastic shift in the company’s history, previously known for its staunch anti-crypto stance.

Starting December 2, 2025, investors can now trade officially regulated crypto ETFs via the Vanguard platform—a strong signal that the digital asset market has reached a level of maturity that traditional financial institutions can no longer ignore.

Investor Demand as the Main Driver

This decision comes amid surging investor interest in digital assets. Spot Bitcoin ETFs that exploded in early 2024 brought billions of dollars into the market. For example, BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust nearly hit USD 100 billion at its peak, putting increasing pressure on conservative firms like Vanguard to offer similar access.

Market Infrastructure Considered Mature

Andrew Kadjeski, Head of Brokerage & Investments at Vanguard, stated that crypto ETF infrastructure is now “liquid, mature, and secure enough” for mainstream investors. Given Vanguard’s traditionally cautious standards, this statement reflects a significant shift in the company’s risk assessment.

The Role of a Pro-Blockchain New CEO

It’s undeniable that Vanguard’s new CEO, Salim Ramji, has accelerated this change. Ramji, a former BlackRock executive and blockchain technology advocate, is reportedly a key figure in shifting the company’s perspective on digital assets.

What Is Vanguard Allowing?

Vanguard remains selective in its new approach:

Allowed

• Trading of regulated Bitcoin ETFs
• Crypto-related mutual funds
• ETFs with solid institutional backing
• Crypto access through regular brokerage accounts

Not Allowed

• Vanguard will not launch its own crypto ETF
• No plans to launch a “Vanguard Coin” token
• No support for meme coin-related funds or high-risk products

With this strategy, Vanguard maintains its conservative image while adapting to the times.

Immediate Impact: Bitcoin Surges Past USD 86,500

The crypto market reacted swiftly. Moments after the announcement, Bitcoin soared past USD 86,500, fueled by investor euphoria. Simultaneously, other giants like BlackRock also increased their holdings in spot Bitcoin ETFs to 14%, further cementing the trend of major institutions entering digital assets.

Analysts view Vanguard’s move as “the biggest legitimacy marker” for the crypto ETF industry to date.

Conclusion

Vanguard’s decision to open the door to crypto ETFs marks a historic moment for Bitcoin adoption in the traditional financial world. If one of the most conservative institutions is finally joining the game, it signals one thing: digital assets have now become a legitimate part of mainstream investment.

With institutional giants coming in, the future of broader and more regulated crypto access is becoming increasingly clear.