Bitcoin ETF: What Is It and Why Is It Necessary?

In January 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC, the US financial regulator) approved the launch of 11 spot crypto funds (ETFs). Investors were able to invest in Bitcoin through traditional stock exchanges, which was a real development for the financial markets and made the cryptocurrency more accessible. 

 

Let’s find out what Bitcoin ETF is and how you can use it to multiply your capital. 

What Is Bitcoin ETF? 

An Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) is a financial instrument that combines different assets (for example, securities of different companies) into one fund and launches it on an exchange. When you buy shares in an ETF, you are investing in multiple assets at once without buying them separately.

Bitcoin ETF is a special type of spot exchange-traded fund that invests in the first cryptocurrency. It tracks the price of Bitcoin and sells its shares. Investors who buy them can make or lose money depending on how the cryptocurrency’s exchange rate changes without purchasing it directly. 

How Bitcoin ETF Works 

Bitcoin ETF shares are listed on US, Australian, and Canadian stock exchanges. They are available to buy and sell during trading hours. The value changes throughout the day and depends on the exchange rate of the underlying asset (Bitcoin). 

While the number of shares of companies in the fund changes rarely, Bitcoin ETFs can fluctuate every day. This is because crypto funds regularly create new securities or redeem already issued ones, assessing investor demand.  

Buying and selling shares of cryptocurrency funds is done through licensed brokerage firms. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Bitcoin ETF 

After figuring out what is Bitcoin ETF, a novice investor may have difficulty figuring out what is better to buy: the digital coins or shares of crypto funds.   

Let’s consider the advantages of ETF first: 

Convenience and security 

Dealing with Bitcoin ETF shares through brokers simplifies the process for those used to traditional investments.  

Easy to buy and sell 

Dealing with Bitcoin ETF shares through brokers simplifies the process for those used to traditional investments. 

Control 

Bitcoin ETFs are assets regulated by the authorities, which adds credibility when compared to owning cryptocurrency directly. 

Now, let’s discuss the cons of Bitcoin ETFs: what are the risks, and how can they affect the investment? 

Price gap  

Despite the mechanism of creation and redemption of ETF shares, the market value of the fund’s assets may deviate from the BTC exchange rate. This increases the risk of making a deal at an unfavorable price.  

Regulatory risks 

Sudden changes in regulations can adversely affect the value of Bitcoin ETFs or even lead to fund closures. 

Fees 

Users are charged certain fees for managing the fund, which can reduce long-term returns. 

How to Use Bitcoin ETF for Investing? 

An investor who knows what is Bitcoin ETF and how it works should find the right strategy to multiply their capital. Here are a few options to consider: 

Long-term investing 

This strategy is for those who believe in the long-term growth of Bitcoin’s price but want to avoid the risks associated with holding the cryptocurrency. Its main principle is buy-and-hold, the essence of which is to buy shares of the fund and hold them while waiting for a significant appreciation.  

Portfolio diversification 

By buying shares of Bitcoin ETF, you are adding an asset to your portfolio that is weakly correlated with other financial markets. This helps reduce your overall risk, as Bitcoin and traditional assets can move in different directions. Moreover, ETFs provide a hedge against the inflation that fiat currencies are prone to. 

Speculation on short-term fluctuations 

You can buy and sell fund shares, capitalizing on changes in their price. This is a riskier strategy, but it can bring quick profits with the right predictions. 

FAQ

1. What is Bitcoin ETF in simple words?

It is an exchange-traded fund that buys large amounts of BTC, tracks its exchange rate, and allows other investors to own its share through shares. 

2. Why invest in a Bitcoin ETF?

Spot funds provide transparency, regulation, and liquidity, allowing investors to make money on cryptocurrency through the familiar stock markets. 

3. What are the risks associated with a Bitcoin ETF?

High fees, crypto market volatility, price divergence from the underlying asset, and legislative changes can negatively impact potential returns.

4. Which Bitcoin ETFs are the most popular?

The funds in highest demand are the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC), iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC). 

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