Charles Schwab is set to acquire Forge, a private markets platform, for $660 million. The deal involves Schwab purchasing all outstanding shares of Forge at $45 each. The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026. This move indicates Schwab's strategy to expand its offerings in alternative investments, enhancing its digital wealth management services. Forge specializes in providing access to private market investment opportunities, which can be appealing to high-net-worth clients looking for diversification beyond traditional public markets. Schwab's investment in Forge reflects a growing interest in alternative investment platforms within the wealth management industry. By integrating Forge's capabilities, Schwab aims to attract more clients who are interested in these types of investments. The deal aligns with broader trends in the financial services sector where firms are increasingly looking to enhance their technology and service offerings in response to changing investor preferences. This acquisition could position Schwab more competitively in the market, especially as interest in private investments continues to rise among affluent investors.