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- Vanguard will begin offering access to regulated crypto ETFs and mutual funds starting Tuesday.
- The shift marks a sharp reversal from years of anti-crypto policy driven by volatility concerns.
- Analysts believe the move could unleash significant new capital into the digital asset market.
Vanguard, the world’s second-largest asset manager, is preparing to offer clients access to cryptocurrency ETFs and mutual funds for the first time — a dramatic reversal from its long-held anti-crypto stance. The firm will begin allowing trading of regulated digital-asset products on Tuesday, following months of mounting demand from both retail investors and major institutions.
The shift comes less than six months after CEO Salim Ramji publicly rejected the idea of listing crypto ETFs on Vanguard’s platform. Now, the firm says it will provide third-party access to crypto investment vehicles “similar to how we treat gold,” according to a statement provided to Cointelegraph.
A Significant Break From Vanguard’s Previous Position
For years, Vanguard held firm against digital assets, arguing that speculative volatility made them unsuitable for long-term portfolios. Former CEO Tim Buckley was especially vocal, stating in mid-2024 that Bitcoin and crypto ETFs “don’t belong” in retirement accounts.
Even Ramji — previously the head of BlackRock’s global ETF division — dismissed the idea as recently as August. But sustained client demand appears to have changed the calculus.
Only regulated ETFs will be available at launch, including products tied to Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, and Solana. The firm emphasized it will not support memecoins and has no plans to create its own crypto ETFs or mutual funds.
Institutional Pressure and Market Maturity Drive Policy Shift
Vanguard oversees more than $11 trillion in global assets. Its participation signals that digital assets have evolved from a fringe curiosity into a mainstream asset class. By treating crypto-linked ETFs like gold ETFs — accessible but not actively promoted — Vanguard appears to be balancing client demand with its traditionally conservative investment philosophy.
Bloomberg reported that only ETFs meeting strict regulatory standards will make the cut, underscoring that Vanguard’s pivot remains cautious rather than enthusiastic.
Could Vanguard’s Move Trigger New Market Inflows?
Crypto analysts say the decision could spark a fresh wave of capital. Investor Nilesh Rohilla predicted Bitcoin could see a 5% jump within 24 hours of the news. Others believe the move reflects a broader shift in traditional finance.
Also Read: Goldman Sachs Makes $2B Bet on Defined-Outcome ETFs With Innovator Acquisition
X user BankXRP called it “another massive signal that traditional finance is fully stepping into digital assets,” while Bitgrow Lab founder Vivek Sen said he sees “trillions incoming.”
Whether that plays out remains to be seen — but Vanguard’s reversal removes one of the final major holdouts in the asset-management world, potentially reshaping how mainstream investors engage with digital assets.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
I’m your translator between the financial Old World and the new frontier of crypto. After a career demystifying economics and markets, I enjoy elucidating crypto – from investment risks to earth-shaking potential. Let’s explore!
