Morgan Stanley Lifts Ban on Wealth Clients Holding Crypto Funds
Morgan Stanley’s decision to open cryptocurrency investments to all clients, including those with retirement accounts, underscores the rising trend of institutional adoption of digital assets.
Multiple sources from 2024 confirm that Morgan Stanley has changed its policy to allow wealth management advisors to actively solicit or 'pitch' investments in spot Bitcoin ETFs to some clients. While wealthy clients have had access to Bitcoin funds since at least 2021 on an unsolicited basis, this recent move lifts a significant restriction on how these products can be recommended, effectively broadening access.
Morgan Stanley has lifted its restrictions on cryptocurrency fund access, enabling all clients, including those with retirement accounts, to invest in Bitcoin funds from BlackRock and Fidelity beginning October 15, 2025. The bank will also implement automated risk monitoring to prevent over-concentration in crypto holdings.
- Cryptocurrency Funds: Investment funds that provide exposure to digital assets such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, either directly or through related financial products.
- Wealth Management: A financial advisory service that manages investments and assets for high-net-worth individuals.