BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) Shines Amidst Challenging Period for US Bitcoin ETFs
BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has emerged as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging period for US Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which experienced their third consecutive day of net outflows on January 13.
Bitcoin ETF Market Sees Net Outflows
According to data from Farside, the Bitcoin ETF market recorded a total net outflow of $284.1 million. BlackRock’s IBIT stood out with a $29.5 million inflow, contrasting sharply with significant outflows from other ETFs.
Outflows Across Other ETFs
On the other hand, Fidelity’s Bitcoin ETF (FBTC) led the losses with $113.6 million in outflows, while ARK’s Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) followed with $92.4 million. Grayscale’s GBTC saw outflows of $89 million, and $18.6 million exited Bitwise’s BITB. Other Bitcoin ETFs reported no activity for the day.
Cumulative Outflows Reach $1 Billion
Over the past three trading days, cumulative outflows across the sector surpassed $1 billion. This trend indicates potential shifts in institutional investment strategies or evolving market sentiment around Bitcoin.
Bitcoin Price Movement
Notably, BTC’s price had declined to a two-month low of under $89,400 before recovering to $96,828 as of press time, according to CryptoSlate’s data.
IBIT Expands to Canadian Markets
BlackRock is extending its reach in the Bitcoin ETF space by launching its iShares Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) in Canada. This development follows the fund’s notable success in the United States.
About the Canadian Launch
The Canadian rollout includes two versions of the ETF: one trades under the ticker IBIT on Cboe Canada, while a US dollar-denominated version is listed as IBIT.U. These ETFs offer investors exposure to Bitcoin by tracking its performance before deducting fund-related expenses.
About the Investment Strategy
The iShares Bitcoin ETF primarily invests in US-traded IBIT, which holds Bitcoin as long-term assets. This structure allows investors to access Bitcoin through traditional brokerage accounts without dealing with custody or operational challenges.
Commentary from Helen Hayes
Helen Hayes, who leads iShares Canada, highlighted that the Canadian expansion reflects BlackRock’s commitment to making investments more accessible. She also noted that this launch provides a convenient and cost-efficient way for Canadian investors to gain Bitcoin exposure.
IBIT’s Success in the US
BlackRock’s decision to expand IBIT follows its exceptional performance in the US, where it achieved a top 1% ranking among ETFs by assets. Over the past year, IBIT has been recognized as one of the most successful ETF launches of the decade.
Mentioned in this Article
Conclusion
BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has emerged as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging period for US Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Despite the industry’s third consecutive day of net outflows, IBIT stood out with a $29.5 million inflow, highlighting its success in the market.
FAQs
Q: What is the current net outflow for Bitcoin ETFs? | $284.1 million |
---|---|
Q: Which ETF led the losses in terms of outflows? | Fidelity’s Bitcoin ETF (FBTC) with $113.6 million in outflows |
Q: What is the current price of Bitcoin? | $96,828 (as of press time) |
Q: What is the investment strategy of the iShares Bitcoin ETF (IBIT)? | The iShares Bitcoin ETF primarily invests in US-traded IBIT, holding Bitcoin as long-term assets |
Q: How does the iShares Bitcoin ETF provide exposure to Bitcoin? | By tracking the performance of Bitcoin before deducting fund-related expenses |
Q: What is the ranking of IBIT among ETFs by assets in the US? | Top 1% ranking among ETFs by assets |
Q: How does the Canadian launch reflect BlackRock’s commitment? | It reflects BlackRock’s commitment to making investments more accessible |