In just 18 months since the launch of the first U.S. Bitcoin ETFs, institutional investors have poured over $50 billion into cryptocurrencies through regulated financial products. This highlights Bitcoin's rapid integration into the mainstream.
Leaders in Bitcoin ETF Inflows
U.S. Bitcoin ETFs have attracted over $50 billion in net new capital within just 18 months. BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has seen $53 billion in gross inflows, although this figure is countered by $23.34 billion in outflows from Grayscale's GBTC. Fidelity's Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund ranks second with $12.29 billion in inflows. Despite the outflow from GBTC, continued interest from both institutional and retail investors remains strong.
Bitcoin as the Leading Digital Asset
According to CoinShares, Bitcoin accounts for 83% of all inflows into digital asset products this year, while Ethereum stands at 16%. IBIT's dominance is particularly notable, holding over 700,000 BTC, more than 55% of all Bitcoin held across U.S. spot ETFs. IBIT has become more profitable for BlackRock than their flagship iShares Core S&P 500 ETF, indicating a significant shift in fund economics.
Growth of Corporate Bitcoin Holdings
Corporations are also ramping up their Bitcoin holdings. This week, Japan's Metaplanet purchased $237 million worth of BTC, becoming the fifth largest corporate Bitcoin holder with over 15,500 BTC. Two European firms, France's Blockchain Group and the UK's Smarter Web Company, also made significant purchases of BTC worth $12.5 million and $24.3 million respectively.
The $50 billion milestone for Bitcoin ETFs demonstrates a structural shift in cryptocurrency adoption. With institutional capital flowing in and companies embracing Bitcoin as a treasury asset, its position as a long-term store of value is solidifying.
