Bitcoin ETFs: Opportunity or Risky Business?

Recent developments in the world of cryptocurrency have brought Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) into the spotlight. While these ETFs might seem like an exciting new way to invest in Bitcoin, there are important aspects to consider:

• Contradiction with Bitcoin’s Original Purpose: Bitcoin was created as a decentralized digital currency for online transactions. However, its adoption for everyday transactions has been limited due to high costs and complex processes. Bitcoin ETFs, by tying Bitcoin to traditional financial systems and pricing them in dollars, could further drift from this original decentralized ethos.
• Questionable Stability in Crises: Despite being touted as digital gold, Bitcoin’s track record during financial crises has been unstable. For instance, during the market turbulences in March 2020 and March 2023, Bitcoin’s value dropped significantly. This volatility raises doubts about its reliability as a stable investment during tough times.
• Timing of ETF Launches: The history of investment trends shows that thematic funds like Bitcoin ETFs often launch when the asset’s value has already peaked. This pattern suggests that investors might be entering at a high price point, which could lead to disappointing returns.
• Trading Limitations: Unlike direct cryptocurrency trading that operates round the clock, Bitcoin ETFs are traded within conventional market hours. This limitation means that investors could miss out on opportunities or be unable to respond to market changes that happen outside these hours.
• Impact of Anticipation on Prices: The anticipation and approval of Bitcoin ETFs have already influenced Bitcoin’s price, potentially creating hurdles for further gains. This effect is something investors should be wary of, as it might affect the investment’s future performance.

In conclusion, while Bitcoin ETFs offer a new avenue for investing in cryptocurrencies, they come with their own set of challenges and risks. For these reasons, we do not plan to incorporate cryptocurrencies into our clients’ portfolios – and we’re not the only ones. The late Charlie Munger (Warren Buffett’s right-hand man) said crypto was rat poison on steroids. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon calls Bitcoin a pet rock because “it does nothing.” We tend to agree!

Sources

ETFs Make Bitcoin’s Problems Even Worse

Jamie Dimon says he’s done talking about bitcoin: ‘I don’t care’