Charles Schwab Corporation has announced the acquisition of Forge Global Holdings Inc. for approximately $660 million, marking a significant expansion into private markets for the U.S.-based brokerage giant. Forge Global, a digital platform for secondary trading in private company shares, provides access to pre-IPO equity, early-stage investments, and liquidity solutions for investors in alternative assets.
The deal reflects Schwab’s strategic ambition to broaden its alternative investment offerings for high-net-worth and institutional clients. By integrating Forge’s platform, Schwab aims to deliver seamless access to private equity, venture capital, and other non-public assets, bridging the gap between public markets and private investments.
Industry analysts emphasize that this move also positions Schwab competitively against rivals such as Fidelity and Morgan Stanley, who have been expanding into the private markets space. The acquisition is expected to drive cross-selling opportunities, enhance client engagement, and strengthen Schwab’s technology-driven investment ecosystem.
Forge Global will continue to operate under its existing brand, maintaining its marketplace for private shares while benefiting from Schwab’s regulatory infrastructure, capital support, and client network. The transaction is set to close in early 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
This acquisition illustrates a broader trend in private equity and alternative investments: the digitization of secondary markets and increasing institutional interest in accessing non-public assets in a regulated, transparent manner.
