BlackRock Plans to Invest in Spot Bitcoin ETFs for Its Global Fund

Last Updated on March 8, 2024

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Key Takeaways:

  • BlackRock intends to incorporate spot Bitcoin ETFs into its Global Allocation Fund, signaling a significant move towards integrating cryptocurrencies into traditional investment portfolios.
  • The firm’s SEC filings on March 7 indicate a focus on investing in physically-backed Bitcoin ETPs that are listed and traded on national securities exchanges.
  • The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), launched by BlackRock, has seen exponential growth in Bitcoin holdings since its inception, highlighting strong market interest in Bitcoin ETFs.
  • BlackRock is actively seeking to introduce a spot Ether ETF, as evidenced by its recent Form S-1 application, showcasing its commitment to expanding into cryptocurrency assets.
  • The initiative raises discussions about the future of regulatory approvals for cryptocurrency ETFs in the U.S., considering the historical context of the approval process for such products.

BlackRock, a leading global asset manager, has announced intentions to incorporate spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) into its Global Allocation Fund (MALOX), including the possibility of buying the firm’s own iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) alongside ETFs from other issuers.

This move, outlined in a recent SEC filing update on March 7, aims to include physically-backed Bitcoin exchange-traded products (ETPs) within MALOX, marking a significant step in integrating cryptocurrency into traditional investment portfolios.

The filing clarifies that MALOX may invest in Bitcoin ETPs listed and traded on national securities exchanges, focusing on those that aim to mirror the price performance of Bitcoin by directly holding the cryptocurrency.

bitcoin with price chart

This initiative is part of BlackRock’s broader strategy to leverage digital assets, demonstrated by its launch of IBIT and the submission of a similar investment strategy for its Strategic Income Opportunities Fund (BSIIX) days before.

Since its inception in 1989, the BlackRock Global Allocation Fund has aimed to deliver investment returns through a diversified strategy involving U.S. and foreign equities, debt, and money market instruments.

blackrock global headquarters in new york city

As of the filing date, MALOX managed assets worth $17.8 billion, showcasing its significant role in BlackRock’s portfolio.

The iShares Bitcoin Trust, IBIT, which started trading on January 11 alongside nine other U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, has seen rapid growth, with its Bitcoin holdings increasing significantly since launch.

This growth underscores BlackRock’s successful foray into the cryptocurrency ETF space, setting precedents for future developments, including its ongoing efforts to secure approval for a spot Ether ETF.

This strategic expansion into cryptocurrency ETFs by BlackRock, including both Bitcoin and potentially Ether, highlights the growing integration of digital assets into mainstream investment strategies.

It also raises questions about the future landscape of regulatory approvals for cryptocurrency ETFs in the U.S., considering the lengthy process previously seen with Bitcoin ETFs.

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Victor Fawole, a seasoned Web3 content creator and social media influencer, excels in bringing the pulse of the crypto world to our readers.

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