United States: All eyes on the arrival of Bitcoin ETFs
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The financial world is in turmoil as institutional investors around the world eagerly await the potential launch of a Bitcoin ETF in the US. This event, if it materialises, could mark a historic turning point in the recognition of digital assets as a legitimate and viable asset class. The world's largest asset manager, BlackRock, is one of the candidates carrying a project.
Bitcoins in the stash
Unlike futures-based ETFs (which have been around since 2021 and the launch of ProShares' BITO), a spot ETF directly reflects the price of Bitcoin. This means that the ETF would hold real bitcoins in its pool, rather than derivatives, which is seen as a significant advantage for those seeking exposure to digital assets.
Simplified investment
The appeal of such an ETF is not limited to novelty. Institutional investors are attracted by the promise of portfolio diversification, increased liquidity and simplified exposure to Bitcoin without the challenges of holding digital assets. In addition, a Bitcoin ETF in the US would likely benefit from robust regulation, increasing investor confidence in the safety and legitimacy of their investment.
Price Impact
The approval of a Bitcoin ETF could have a significant impact on the cryptocurrency market. It could lead to an increase in institutional demand for Bitcoin, potentially increasing its price. In addition, it could encourage the approval of other cryptocurrency-based investment products, paving the way for wider adoption of digital assets. Ethereum ETF filings have already been made, including BlackRock.
Inaccessible in Europe
In the event that the US regulator authorises the launch of several Bitcoin ETFs, these products would not be accessible to Europeans apart from a few institutional proprietary investors. However, there are similar products already available in Europe, such as ETCs.