Bitwise Invest has announced the launch of the Bitwise Bitcoin Standard Corporations ETF (ticker: OWNB), marking a significant advancement in the integration of cryptocurrency into traditional financial markets. This exchange-traded fund is specifically designed to track publicly traded companies that hold at least 1,000 bitcoin (BTC), offering investors a unique opportunity to gain exposure to firms that are heavily invested in the digital asset space.
The ETF operates based on a well-defined set of criteria for inclusion in its index. Companies must possess a minimum of 1,000 BTC, and their holdings are weighted according to the volume of bitcoin owned. Notably, the largest individual holding is capped at 20%, ensuring a balanced approach. Furthermore, companies that derive less than 33% of their assets from bitcoin are assigned a weight of 1.5%. This structure promotes diversification within the fund while maintaining a focus on meaningful bitcoin ownership. The index is set to rebalance every quarter, allowing for adjustments in response to market changes.
As of the end of 2024, Bitwise reported that publicly traded companies collectively held 591,817 BTC, illustrating the growing acceptance of cryptocurrency among institutional investors. OWNB is expected to trade on NYSE Arca, featuring a competitive expense ratio of 0.85%.
In its research, Bitwise has identified 70 public companies that currently include bitcoin on their balance sheets. The top three holdings of the ETF include Strategy at 20.87%, MARA Holdings at 12.12%, and CleanSpark at 6.26%, underscoring a strategic focus on established firms that are adept at navigating the evolving landscape of digital finance.
For investors interested in adding cryptocurrency exposure to their portfolios without directly purchasing bitcoin, the Bitwise Bitcoin Standard Corporations ETF presents a compelling option. Its structure aligns with both traditional investment strategies and the innovative characteristics of the cryptocurrency market.
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