Bank of America announced that its wealth‑management advisers will be able to recommend cryptocurrency allocations to client portfolios starting January 5, 2026. The change removes the previous asset‑threshold requirement that limited access to Bitcoin ETFs for high‑net‑worth clients.
The policy shift marks the bank’s first formal expansion of crypto services within its wealth‑management platform. Advisers can now suggest allocations of 1% to 4% of a client’s portfolio in regulated spot Bitcoin ETFs, including BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, Bitwise’s Bitcoin ETF, and Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust.
The move reflects growing client demand for digital assets and a broader industry trend. Major competitors such as Morgan Stanley, BlackRock, Fidelity, and Vanguard have already formalized crypto allocation guidelines, while institutions like Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs, and UBS have not yet authorized similar permissions.
Management emphasized that the modest allocation range balances potential upside with Bitcoin’s volatility, which fell nearly 33% from its October 2025 high and shed over $18,000 in November. Chief Investment Officer Chris Hyzy said the 1%‑to‑4% range is suitable for investors comfortable with high volatility and interested in thematic innovation.
By enabling advisers to recommend crypto, Bank of America aims to tap into new revenue streams and enhance client engagement. The policy aligns with the bank’s focus on regulated products and addresses regulatory concerns by limiting exposure to vetted spot ETFs.
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