Spot Bitcoin ETFs ease access but face custody and advisor adoption challenges, panelists say

Spot Bitcoin ETFs have successfully addressed the crypto access issue by integrating bitcoin exposure into traditional brokerage and wealth management accounts. However, industry experts at Consensus Miami 2026 highlighted ongoing challenges including custody concentration mainly with Coinbase, modest uptake by financial advisors, and inefficiencies in ETF creation flows. Despite holding $107 billion in assets, advisor allocations remain small relative to the overall wealth management market. The panelists emphasized the need for diversification in custody and better infrastructure to support broader adoption as the market matures.