Introduces Rick Wurster, CEO of Charles Schwab, to discuss record quarterly and full-year results.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
Reports a record year with $519B in net new assets, growth across all client segments, and strong operational execution.
Asks what has driven the incredible trading volume and growth.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
Attributes success to having the best platform (thinkorswim, mobile, web) combined with service, coaching, and network, offering clients everything without trade-offs.
Asks about the evolution of retail trader and client behavior.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
Retail trading activity was up 30% last year and is up another 20% year-to-date. Clients are engaged, generally optimistic, and seeking more comprehensive financial help.
Asks him to elaborate on key investor trends: AI, digital assets, bull market for advice, convenience, and gambling vs. investing.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
AI will significantly impact how clients invest, consume research, and how Schwab serves them, helping bridge the gap for clients who can't get a 1-to-1 consultant.
Rick Wurster
The story on digital assets is unwritten; Schwab expects Bitcoin and Ethereum spot launch in H1 2026.
Rick Wurster
Schwab is cautious on offering gambling, as it detracts from client wealth, which is counter to their mission.
Asks for his thoughts on the volatility in metals and crypto, and how people may view them for 2026.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
The idea of Bitcoin as 'digital gold' or a store of value is being tested. In the last year, the dollar down, gold and silver up ~100%, but Bitcoin is down 40%.
Rick Wurster
There is tremendous retail interest in silver and gold; 8.5% of Schwab's option volume last week was in silver/gold options, a dramatic increase.
Rick Wurster
Bitcoin's 50% annualized volatility means large price swings are to be expected.
Asks about priorities for 2026 and how he feels about the market in general.
Nicole Petallides
Rick Wurster
We feel fine about the market. While valuations are high, the economy is strong and there are lots of reasonably valued stocks.
Rick Wurster
As long as the economy stays with relatively low unemployment and reasonable inflation, we'll continue to see markets do well.
Rick Wurster
Schwab's focus is on innovation across trading, wealth, lending, and advisor support to help clients with their entire financial life.