Vanguard Launches Hunt for Head of Digital Assets in $10+ Trillion Pivot

In a groundbreaking move signaling institutional adoption, Vanguard, the $12 trillion asset management behemoth, is hiring its first-ever Head of Digital Assets. The job posting, released Monday, reveals the firm is seeking a leader to develop a "multi-year digital assets roadmap" for its Personal Wealth division. This historic hire aims to define and execute Vanguard's strategy for integrating digital asset capabilities, products, and operating models, marking a seismic shift for the traditionally conservative giant and its $10+ trillion in assets under management.

Vanguard U-turns on crypto

In 2024, Vanguard took a stance against Bitcoin ETFs, announcing at that time that they “have no plans to offer Vanguard Bitcoin ETFs or other crypto-related products” to clients.

“Our perspective is long-standing that cryptocurrencies’ high volatility runs counter to our goal of helping investors generate positive real returns over the long term,” the company said.

Nearly two years later, just when Bitcoin ETFs had seen over $113.29 billion in AUM led by BlackRock, Vanguard eased up its stance, announcing in December 2025 that it would allow trading of mutual funds and ETFs that primarily invest in cryptos on its platform.

“Cryptocurrency ETFs and mutual funds have been tested through periods of market volatility, performing as designed while maintaining liquidity,” Vanguard’s head of brokerage and investments, Andrew Kadjeski, concluded.

In the same month, Vanguard’s biggest rival BlackRock, with up to $10 trillion in AUM, had also opened a search for seven digital asset positions, as it continues to deepen its footprint in crypto. Six was based in the United States and one in Singapore.

BlackRock’s IBIT currently accounts for $46.7 billion in net assets.

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