BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund, has rapidly grown to hold over $20 billion in assets under management since its launch in January 2024. This makes it the largest fund of its kind, reflecting significant institutional investor demand.
In a related development, BlackRock has launched the iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA), a spot Ethereum ETF, which began trading on March 17, 2026. The launch follows regulatory approval from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, marking a major expansion for cryptocurrency-based investment products.
Analysts note that these products provide traditional investors with regulated exposure to major cryptocurrencies without the complexities of direct ownership. The substantial inflows into IBIT have been a key driver in its growth, though market volatility for underlying assets remains.
