Growing Institutional Support for Bitcoin Persists Despite Market Volatility, Reports Bitwise

• Recent data indicates U.S. institutional investors are maintaining or increasing their support for Bitcoin through spot ETFs, despite market turbulence.
• This trend has persisted even as Bitcoin prices faced a downturn in the second quarter.
• Bitwise’s CIO, Matt Hougan, noted in an August 15th post that filings related to spot Bitcoin ETFs have surged significantly.

U.S. institutional investors exhibit increased appetite for Bitcoin ETFs, highlighting resilience amid market fluctuations.

Institutional Engagement in Spot Bitcoin ETFs Continues to Rise

Following an analysis by Bitwise’s Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan, there has been a notable uptick in filings for spot Bitcoin ETFs, reflecting an increased institutional interest. As of Q2, there were 1,924 holder-to-ETF pairings, up from 1,479 in Q1, indicating a 30% increase. Despite the overlap from institutions holding multiple ETFs, this growth illustrates a robust inclination toward Bitcoin investments.

Market Stability Amidst Volatility

Contrary to the expectation that market volatility might deter institutional investors, Bitwise’s data suggests strong market confidence. During Q2, 44% of institutions increased their holdings, while 22% maintained their positions. Only a small fraction, 21%, reduced their exposure, and a mere 13% withdrew completely. This data underpins the steadfastness of institutional investors in the Bitcoin ETF domain.

Diverse Investor Participation in Bitcoin ETFs

The landscape of Bitcoin ETF investors is diverse, encompassing hedge funds, advisors, family offices, and institutional investors. Noteworthy contributors in this realm include major hedge funds like Millennium, Schonfeld, Boothbay, and Capula. Hougan’s remarks underscore the inclusivity of ETFs, drawing a wide array of investors. He anticipates that wealth managers and pension funds will soon play a more significant role in this burgeoning market.

Major Financial Institutions Expand Bitcoin ETF Holdings

Several leading financial institutions have significantly increased their holdings in Bitcoin ETFs recently. Morgan Stanley reported owning over 5.5 million shares of the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), valued at roughly $188 million, securing their position among the top five IBIT fundholders.

Broader Portfolio Investments

Morgan Stanley’s filings also revealed smaller yet notable investments across various Bitcoin-related ETFs, including the Valkyrie ETF Trust, Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), and Bitwise’s own spot Bitcoin ETF. Similarly, Goldman Sachs has amassed over $238 million in spot Bitcoin ETFs, holding nearly 7 million shares in the iShares Bitcoin Trust and substantial positions in Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin ETF and Invesco Galaxy spot Bitcoin ETF.

Conclusion

The rising engagement of institutional investors in spot Bitcoin ETFs, despite market volatility, underscores a growing confidence and a maturing investment landscape. As more wealth managers and pension funds potentially join this market, the trend is expected to sustain and possibly amplify. Institutional persistence in Bitcoin ETF investments illustrates a resilient faith in the digital asset, paving the way for broader market stabilization and growth.