BlackRock, the largest asset manager globally, has introduced a Bitcoin exchange-traded product (ETP) in Europe, launching its iShares Bitcoin ETP on March 25 across major stock exchanges including Xetra and Euronext. This product follows the company’s successful Bitcoin ETF in the US, which holds over $50 billion in assets. The new ETP features lower fees, starting with a temporary 0.15% expense ratio, making it more affordable compared to competitors. Industry experts believe this launch indicates increased interest in Bitcoin investments among traditional investors in Europe, highlighting a shift towards digital assets amid evolving regulatory landscapes. BlackRock aims to stay competitive by offering attractive pricing and establishing a strong presence in the crypto Market.
BlackRock Launches Bitcoin ETP in Europe: A New Era for Crypto Investments
In a significant move, BlackRock, known as the world’s biggest asset manager, has launched a Bitcoin exchange-traded product (ETP) on several European stock exchanges. The iShares Bitcoin ETP started trading on March 25, 2025, on platforms such as Xetra, Euronext Amsterdam, and Euronext Paris. This development comes after the success of BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF, which has about $50.7 billion in assets and represents nearly 2.73% of the total Bitcoin supply.
According to Stephen Wundke, a strategy expert at crypto firm Algoz, the reception of this ETP in Europe may differ from the U.S. He noted that Europe has already had more accessible investment options through regulated asset managers, making Bitcoin easier to purchase. However, it offers traditional family offices in Europe the chance to hold a small portion of their assets in Bitcoin, which is seen as a positive step. Wundke cautioned that we shouldn’t expect massive investment figures like the $60 billion seen in the U.S. during the first quarter.
Product Details and Fee Structure
The new Bitcoin ETP will trade under the ticker IB1T on Xetra and Euronext Paris, while in Amsterdam, it will use the ticker BTCN. The launch comes with an attractive temporary fee waiver of 10 basis points, reducing the expense ratio to 0.15% until the end of 2025. This rate is competitive compared to Europe’s leading crypto ETP, the CoinShares Physical Bitcoin ETP, which charges 0.25%. Wundke emphasized that BlackRock’s pricing strategy is likely aimed at discouraging competition.
iShares Expanding to Europe
This marks BlackRock’s first crypto ETP launch outside North America. Manuela Sperandeo from BlackRock mentioned that this initiative signals a pivotal moment in the industry, blending the growing demand from retail investors with increased participation from professionals. Ajay Dhingra, a research head at Unizen, praised the regulatory stability in the European Union, especially when compared to fluctuating digital asset policies in the U.S.
With BlackRock managing over $11.55 trillion in assets, this launch not only expands their portfolio but also highlights the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investment in Europe.
If you are interested in investing in Bitcoin, keep an eye on this new ETP and what it means for the future of digital assets in the European Market.
What is BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETP?
BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETP is an exchange-traded product that allows investors in Europe to buy and sell Bitcoin more easily. It works like a regular stock, making it simpler for people to invest in Bitcoin without needing to handle it directly.
Why is this launch important?
This launch is significant because it shows that traditional finance is becoming more open to cryptocurrencies. It may attract more investors and boost Bitcoin’s credibility as a legitimate investment option.
How does a Bitcoin ETP work?
A Bitcoin ETP tracks the price of Bitcoin. When you invest in it, you don’t own actual Bitcoin but rather shares that represent its value. This means you can trade it on the stock Market like any other share.
Who can invest in this ETP?
Anyone in Europe with a brokerage account can invest in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETP. It’s designed for both individual and institutional investors, making it accessible to a wide range of people.
What are the risks of investing in a Bitcoin ETP?
As with any investment, there are risks involved. The price of Bitcoin can be very volatile, meaning it can go up or down quickly. Investors should do their own research and consider their risk tolerance before investing.