Bank of America will enable its advisors at Bank of America Private Bank, Merrill and Merrill Edge to recommend crypto-linked exchange-traded products (ETPs) starting January 5, 2026. In practice, over 15,000 advisors across those divisions will gain the ability to include regulated Bitcoin exposure in suitable client portfolios.

What this means for clients

Until now, crypto exposure via these platforms was typically only available to clients who requested it or met high-asset thresholds. The new guidance lets advisors proactively suggest crypto ETPs as part of a diversified portfolio — always aligned with risk profile and suitability. Heads up: this isn’t an invitation to go all-in.

Recommended portfolio allocation

The bank’s internal recommendation suggests a conservative allocation range of 1%–4% of total portfolio value for clients comfortable with volatility, with lower allocations for more cautious profiles. In plain English: treat crypto as an “alternatives” slice, not the core of the portfolio.

Access via regulated ETPs, not direct crypto custody

Coverage will begin with several spot Bitcoin ETFs already available in U.S. markets, enabling clients to gain exposure without holding private keys. That simplifies compliance, reporting and institutional operations.

Risks remain real

The bank and industry analysts warn about crypto’s inherent price swings, speculative dynamics and custodial risks. Advice will come with suitability checks, education and allocation limits — not a blanket endorsement to load up on Bitcoin.

Implications for traditional finance and crypto adoption

With a heavyweight like Bank of America formally allowing crypto recommendations, digital assets continue their transition from fringe speculation to mainstream wealth-management tools. For many clients, this offers the simplest regulated route to Bitcoin exposure — bridging traditional finance and the crypto world.