Morgan Stanley Deepens Crypto Push With New Strategy Lead

• Morgan Stanley appointed Amy Oldenburg to lead digital asset strategy as it coordinates crypto plans across wealth and asset units.

• The bank filed for spot Bitcoin and Solana ETFs and is preparing crypto trading access through its E*Trade platform.

• A digital wallet planned for 2026 will add custody and management tools as Morgan Stanley expands beyond pilot crypto efforts.

Morgan Stanley has appointed Amy Oldenburg to lead its newly formed Digital Asset Strategy division. The move was announced this week as the bank expands crypto exposure plans. The appointment follows recent filings for spot Bitcoin and Solana ETFs and comes as crypto trading and wallet services move closer to launch.

New Role Brings Structure to Digital Asset Plans

Amy Oldenburg will oversee Morgan Stanley’s digital asset efforts across internal teams and external partnerships. Notably, she joins the role after more than 20 years at the firm. She previously worked within Morgan Stanley Asset Management and served as head of emerging markets.

According to commentary accompanying the announcement, the role aims to coordinate crypto initiatives across business lines. These include asset management, wealth management, and investment banking operations. The appointment formalizes oversight as the bank prepares new crypto-related offerings.

Morgan Stanley has already taken initial steps in digital assets. Last month, it filed applications tied to spot Bitcoin and Solana exchange-traded funds. Earlier, the firm announced work with crypto infrastructure provider Zero Hash to support trading access for select clients.

**Crypto Trading and Wallet Plans **

In parallel, Morgan Stanley plans to introduce crypto trading on its E*Trade platform. The trading feature would allow eligible clients to access digital assets through existing brokerage accounts. However, the bank has not provided a public launch date.

Additionally, Morgan Stanley plans to launch a digital wallet in 2026. The wallet would support custody and asset management functions. These tools would complement trading services rather than replace existing financial products.

Notably, these steps place Morgan Stanley behind peers that entered crypto earlier. JPMorgan, for example, has announced partnerships with Coinbase and broader blockchain initiatives. However, Morgan Stanley’s recent actions show an expansion beyond observation.

Wealth Management Central to Strategy

Wealth management remains a core focus of the digital asset strategy. Morgan Stanley generates long-term stability from its large advisory business. Oldenburg’s background links asset management and wealth platforms.

According to the discussion, her role extends beyond one division. She will help connect internal units while engaging crypto-focused firms externally. This includes relationships tied to investment banking clients.