Vanguard Considers Access to Third-Party Crypto ETFs

TLDR

• Vanguard manages $10 trillion in assets under management.
• Salim Ramji, a pro-crypto leader, is now Vanguard's CEO.
• SEC approval rules for ETFs have recently been streamlined.

Vanguard, the second-largest asset management firm globally with $10 trillion in assets under management, is reportedly exploring plans to allow U.S. brokerage clients to access third-party crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This development, which marks a potential shift from Vanguard’s traditionally cautious approach to digital assets, comes amid evolving industry trends and regulatory changes.

To date, no official public statement has been issued by the company or through its social media platforms confirming the launch of these crypto ETFs. Furthermore, Vanguard has not announced any plans to create its own proprietary crypto ETFs. Reports on this development rely on sources familiar with internal considerations rather than direct announcements from the company's leadership.

Key Figures and Institutional Context

Vanguard's exploration into crypto ETF access coincides with the appointment of Salim Ramji as CEO in early 2024. Ramji, known for his pro-crypto stance, previously led BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF unit and managed the launch of its flagship BTC ETF. This appointment may indicate a shift toward greater crypto receptivity within Vanguard.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently reformed ETF approval rules, streamlining the process and opening doors for new crypto products. These changes have resulted in a competitive landscape where firms like BlackRock and Fidelity have already launched their own crypto ETFs. Vanguard’s contemplation of crypto ETF offerings situates the firm within this evolving regulatory context.

Potential Impact on Crypto Assets

If Vanguard proceeds with offering access to crypto ETFs, Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) would likely be at the forefront, given their liquidity and regulatory clarity. Other altcoins such as Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), and Cardano (ADA) could also be affected as the SEC reviews new filings for these assets under updated ETF listing rules.

Currently, there are no direct on-chain indicators of Vanguard’s move. However, some trends have emerged: Ethereum ETFs drew significant inflows of $4 billion in September 2025, and BlackRock’s ETH ETF registered a substantial netting of $266 million in a single day. Conversely, Bitcoin ETFs experienced $800 million in net outflows in August 2025.

Regulatory Changes and Market Reactions

The SEC has enacted rules that facilitate faster approvals for commodity-based crypto trusts, with decision timelines as short as 60–75 days. As of now, more than 90 crypto ETF applications, including those with altcoin exposure, are under review. In September 2025, a roundtable discussion with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is scheduled to align regulations on crypto derivatives and tokenized securities.

While the wider crypto community hasn’t exhibited any specific reaction linked to Vanguard's possible entry into crypto ETFs, broad sentiment suggests the firm's involvement could mainstream crypto ETFs. However, any approach would likely be methodical and compliance-oriented. For the latest updates from Vanguard, please refer to their corporate pressroom.