Morgan Stanley’s E*Trade to Launch Crypto Trading via Zerohash Deal

Core Insights - Morgan Stanley is entering the digital asset space by launching crypto trading on its ETrade platform, expected to go live in the first half of 2026, providing retail investors access to cryptocurrencies [1][7] - The initiative is facilitated through a partnership with Zerohash, allowing trading of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, with Solana's inclusion reflecting strong institutional interest [2][5] - The move indicates a broader acceptance of digital assets among traditional financial institutions, positioning Morgan Stanley in competition with other brokerages already active in the crypto market [3][5] Industry Trends - The digital asset market has expanded to a valuation of nearly $3.9 trillion, driven by growing retail interest and the entry of established brokerages [5][7] - Regulatory conditions in the U.S. are becoming more favorable for the crypto industry, encouraging financial institutions to develop digital asset services without previous uncertainties [6][7] - The entry of well-known platforms like ETrade into the crypto market is expected to enhance competition among brokerages, leading to innovative products and improved services for investors [7]