You ever wondered why there has been an increasing interest in Cryptocurrency products? You know the score. Cryptocurrencies have led investors to resort to diversified avenues so that they don’t miss out on the digital assets boom.
With Exchange-traded products (ETPs) on the frontline, Cryptocurrencies have become sophisticated investment tools that give access to Crypto assets through traditional financial markets. Yet, to understand the factors surrounding these products and how they operate, read along.
The Story of Crypto ETPs
For the past few years, Cryptocurrency ETPs have been quietly establishing their footprint worldwide. They form a bridge for more traditional investors into the Crypto space. With market spectators welcoming the decision of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to greenlight a spot bitcoin ETF, several Crypto-related ETPs have sprung up, from Canada’s Toronto Stock Exchange to the Swiss SIX Exchange and Nasdaq Nordic, among others.
ETP, ETF and CEF Explained
ETPs, ETFs (exchange-traded funds) and CEFs (closed-end funds) usually leave most investors in a fog of confusion. Basically, an ETP is an investment product that trades on exchanges, mirroring the performance of underlying financial instruments, in this case, Crypto assets.
Now, each category within the ETP comes with a set of unique characteristics. Typically, ETFs trade close to their net asset value (NAV), allowing for the creation and redemption of shares. In contrast, CEFs can trade at significant premiums or discounts to their NAV, as seen with products like those from Grayscale.
The Crypto ETP Landscape
The dynamic nature of the Crypto ETP landscape cannot be overstated enough. Grayscale distinguishes itself with its formidable asset under management (AUM) figure and Bitcoin trust. Beyond Grayscale, there are many other options available. Over 40 Cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETPs) are listed on Switzerland’s SIX Swiss Exchange alone, with the most traded being WisdomTree Bitcoin and 21Shares Ethereum ETP. With the introduction of multiple Bitcoin ETFs, Canada took the lead in North America, demonstrating a sizable demand for regulated Cryptocurrency investment products.
October 2021 saw the US celebrate the introduction of the first Bitcoin ETFs. However, these funds are based on Bitcoin futures contracts that trade on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, not the actual price of Bitcoin.
How Can Investors Engage with Crypto ETPs?
For most investors, accessing the crypto ETP market is a straightforward affair as it often requires only an account with a brokerage that has reached exchanges listing these products.
Additionally, certain products are designed specifically for qualified investors, offering exclusive investment deals for members with a better understanding of the market dynamics.
What the Future Holds for ETPs
The more Crypto asset acquisition, the more ETPs are likely to grow. These instruments offer a regulated and familiar path for investors looking to venture into Cryptocurrencies without direct contact. And as a result, this cuts the challenges of owning, storing and securing digital assets.
However, the Crypto landscape is still evolving, with regulatory stances subject to intermittent changes. Rigorous research and consultations with financial and legal advisors is important before investing in Cryptocurrency ETPs. This type of investment merges the innovation of cryptographic assets with traditional finance inherently offering an opportunity for the modern investor.
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Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
