Crypto ETFs are here to stay, downturn be damned
Despite a bearish cryptocurrency market, ETF issuers continue to push forward with new filings, betting that demand for digital asset funds will remain strong.
- ETF issuers like Bitwise, ProShares, and 21Shares are advancing with new filings, including plans for Uniswap-linked and leveraged Bitcoin/Ether ETFs.
- The crypto ETF market is crowded, with over 140 existing funds, 10 new launches this year, and more expected.
- Bitcoin’s sharp price drop has led to significant losses for ETF buyers, with $1.5 billion withdrawn from Ether ETFs and over $3.5 billion from Bitcoin ETFs in the past three months.
This month, Bitwise Asset Management filed for a Uniswap-linked ETF, while ProShares sought approval for leveraged Bitcoin and Ether ETFs. 21Shares also resubmitted plans for funds based on Ondo and Sei, signaling progress in its efforts.
Todd Sohn, chief ETF strategist at Strategas, told Bloomberg that while firms like 21Shares and Bitwise remain committed to the long-term potential of crypto, ongoing poor performance could affect future flows.
This comes amid a crowded market, with over 140 crypto-focused US ETFs already trading, and 10 more launched this year. A BNB staking ETF is expected soon.
Cryptos have faced renewed pressure after October’s selloff, with Bitcoin falling sharply, dragging smaller tokens down. Investors are stepping back as liquidity tightens and risk appetite wanes.
Data from Glassnode shows that buyers of U.S. spot-Bitcoin ETFs are sitting on average paper losses, having bought Bitcoin at around $84,100 per coin, while the price now hovers near $66,000. This has led to significant outflows, with over $1.5 billion withdrawn from Ether-focused ETFs and more than $3.5 billion pulled from Bitcoin ETFs in recent months.
