Cryptocurrency Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) Explained
Exploring digital asset exchange traded funds.
What is a Cryptocurrency ETF?
A cryptocurrency exchange-traded-fund (ETF) has a similar operative method to a regular ETF which is essentially a type of security that involves a collection of securities such as stocks that often tracks an underlying index for example, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY), tracks the S&P 500 Index. ETFs are usually known to identify available assets in a financial market while cryptocurrency ETFs are designed to source digital tokens on a blockchain network.
Similar to traditional ETFs, the cryptocurrency ETFs can be bought or sold amidst constant price fluctuations as individuals invest.
Key Takeaways
- ETFs could offer an array of investment options and would reduce diversification into mainstream digital currencies.
- Cryptocurrency ETFs can also identify a unit of digital currency or a pool of several digital assets and currencies.
- Cryptocurrency ETF has already been listed as an exchange option in several countries but big financial players in the USA have been reluctant to introduce it as a trading option in the market.
- Several other trading options on the market allow the promotion of digital assets without the need for an active investor to control the assets.
- Digital tokens provide options for investment in cryptocurrency companies and serve as a medial bridge in asset management.
Mode of Operation of a Cryptocurrency ETF
The efficiency of a Cryptocurrency ETF strongly depends on how each real-life stock or asset in the market fares under control by a cryptocurrency company. These exchange-traded funds usually operate by leveraging higher on an asset to increase returns. Most of these assets are short investment plans for quick gains as holding on for longer periods could prove extremely risky to capital assets.
Special Considerations
How has cryptocurrency ETF fared in recent times?
As it stands, the progress of index funds has been relentless as research shows that it is a strong contender to government bonds in terms of liquidity. Their shares over the last decade have seen a 20% rise and could still increase in the foreseeable future.
The index traded fund looks to expand towards active mutual funds as well as traditional index funds and could overtake the territory due to their efficiency and low cost. The regulatory body in the US is adamant about its refusal to consent to the operation of the investment fund until the volatility of assets decreases and can be monitored.
The Regulatory body in the U.S however announced that approval could happen in the future which could sway optimistic investors into a sense of hope if index traded funds take off in countries around the world, especially in Africa. The demand for digital currency ETFs has also been on the rise in European and Asian countries. However, investors in the States may have to wait a while longer.
Differences between Cryptocurrency ETF and Bitcoin Investment Trust
As mentioned earlier, cryptocurrency ETFs are still requiring a go-ahead from the regulatory bodies for them to be introduced into the market. In the meantime, Bitcoin Investment Trust (GBTC) has provided an array of options – bitcoins are held by the company and people can then trade tokens within the organization.
Parent companies Grayscale Investment Trust requires a 2% commission on investments which is way more than its competitive counterparts. Besides, its position as the apex provider of the service contributes to its high level of volatility.
Quite strangely as expectations are on GBTC to be synonymous in value to bitcoin. This is currently unavailable to major financial sectors despite their capability to buy into the high price action. Investors with a major interest in this investment option can try looking at international options if they meet their strict policies.
Advantages of Cryptocurrency ETFs
Some of the accomplished digital currencies today are known for their massive profits. However, a cloud of uncertainty still hangs over this sector due to its highly volatile price action hence why many investors are leaning towards using a cryptocurrency ETF instead of direct investment.
Digital exchange funds provide a minimum risk to investors through token purchase and allowing the experts to handle security and risk assessment. The fact that there are numerous electronic coin-related fraudulent activities is also another reason why investors try to mitigate risk using digital currency trusts.
Some other benefits of this approach are the susceptibility of electronic accounts to compromise with the inability to trace after. Investing in an electronic ETF however, provides extra insurance to funds from the fund manager.
