From Skeptics to Buyers: Why Banks Are Rushing Into Bitcoin

Citi, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs and UBS expand Bitcoin custody, trading, ETFs, and ETP offerings.

Major global banks are expanding their Bitcoin services, marking a shift in institutional engagement with digital assets.

Over the past three months, firms including Citi, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, and Goldman Sachs have announced new Bitcoin-related products.

The moves range from custody and trading to exchange-traded products and direct purchases.

US Banks Expand Bitcoin Services

Citi announced plans to launch Bitcoin custody, wallet, and key management services this year.

The bank said the offering will help integrate Bitcoin into traditional financial systems. The service targets institutional clients seeking regulated storage and transaction solutions.

Morgan Stanley disclosed plans to launch its own Bitcoin trust or ETF. The bank is also preparing a Bitcoin-supporting digital wallet by 2026.

It confirmed that Bitcoin trading services are expected to begin in 2026.

The firm also outlined plans for Bitcoin lending, yield products, and full custody services.

These steps position Morgan Stanley among early major banks filing for direct Bitcoin investment products. The bank’s roadmap indicates a broader digital asset strategy.

JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs Adjust Stance

JPMorgan is exploring Bitcoin and crypto trading for institutional clients.

The bank has historically maintained a cautious approach toward digital assets. Recent comments from leadership suggest a change in tone.

BIG BANKS ARE COMING TO BITCOIN (last 3 months)

Citi:
Launching Bitcoin custody, wallet & key management to integrate BTC into tradfi this year

Morgan Stanley:
– To launch its own Bitcoin Trust/ETF (1st major bank to file)
– Bitcoin-supporting digital wallet in 2026
– Bitcoin… pic.twitter.com/D7hypyvZxa

— Bitcoin Archive (@BitcoinArchive) February 26, 2026

CEO Jamie Dimon stated that he was wrong about Bitcoin and said, “Bitcoin is real.” He added that it will be used broadly.

The bank is assessing infrastructure to support client demand for crypto exposure.

Goldman Sachs disclosed in a filing that it purchased $1.1 billion worth of Bitcoin.

CEO David Solomon also confirmed that he owns a small amount of Bitcoin. The bank continues to expand its digital asset trading desk and related services.

European Banks Enter Bitcoin Market

Standard Chartered announced the launch of prime brokerage accounts for Bitcoin trading.

The service is designed for institutional investors seeking execution and custody under one platform. The bank has been active in digital asset initiatives through its subsidiaries.

UBS is preparing to offer Bitcoin trading to select private banking clients.

The rollout will focus on high-net-worth individuals seeking portfolio diversification. The service will operate within existing regulatory frameworks.

Danske Bank, Denmark’s largest bank, confirmed it will offer Bitcoin and crypto exchange-traded products to investors.

The products provide exposure without direct ownership of digital assets. The announcement reflects growing European bank participation in the Bitcoin market.

From skeptics to buyers, major banks are moving to integrate Bitcoin into core financial services.

Custody, trading, and investment products are expanding across the United States and Europe.

As banks roll out new offerings, Bitcoin is becoming part of mainstream financial infrastructure.