Cryptocurrency ETFs: 6 Current Options
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Cryptocurrency ETFs are exchange-traded funds that have some exposure to cryptocurrency assets and can be purchased on major stock exchanges.
ETFs can be an attractive option for people who are looking for passive investments with relatively low fees. Despite the approval of multiple spot Bitcoin ETFs in Jan. 2024, options remain limited for investors who are looking for broad exposure to the cryptocurrency market through one fund.
Most crypto ETFs are still based on derivatives like futures contracts, or offer exposure to companies that own cryptocurrency or operate in the cryptocurrency industry. Here's the current slate of options.
Cryptocurrency stock ETFs
There are ETFs available that are made up of the stock of multiple companies that own cryptocurrency or have some business in the world of cryptocurrency. These ETFs are linked to the world of crypto, but they do not actually own crypto. Instead, they hold shares in companies who have invested in crypto or whose business involves cryptocurrency trading, mining or other services.
Examples of cryptocurrency ETFs
Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK): This fund is focused on blockchain technology. Some of the cryptocurrency stocks in the Amplify fund’s portfolio include CME Group, a financial services company that works with products including Bitcoin and Ethereum and Coinbase Global Inc.
First Trust Indxx Innovative Transaction & Process ETF (LEGR): This fund aims to track the investment performance of the Indxx Blockchain index. The LEGR ETF holds companies that are developing or using blockchain technology. Top holdings include Intel and AT&T Inc.
Siren NASDAQ Economy ETF (BLCN): This index fund is focused on investing in companies that have committed to research, development and usage of blockchain technology. Top holdings include Coinbase and Marathon Digital Holdings.
Bitcoin ETFs
You can get exposure to Bitcoin through publicly traded spot Bitcoin ETFs, which track the price of Bitcoin and can be purchased through many online brokers. Many Bitcoin ETFs are trying to encourage investment by reducing or waiving their fees for a set period of time. For more information, check out our article on how to buy Bitcoin ETFs.
It’s worth noting, that Bitcoin ETFs don’t give you diversified exposure to cryptocurrency overall, because they only have exposure to one cryptocurrency. But for casual investors who already have a brokerage account, purchasing a Bitcoin ETF can be more straightforward and accessible than purchasing Bitcoin directly.
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Examples of Bitcoin ETFs
Ark 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB): ARKB charges a management fee of 0.21%, which is on the low side compared to other Bitcoin ETFs . It is also waiving that fee through July 2024 or until the fund reaches $1 billion in assets.
iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT): IBIT charges a management fee of 0.25% . The fee is reduced to 0.12% until Jan. 2025, or until the fund reaches $5 billion in assets.
Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC): FBTC charges a management fee of 0.25%, which is waived until August 2024.
A writer and an editor who worked on this article owned Bitcoin at the time of its most recent update.
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