BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, has significantly increased its holdings in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ether.
Increase in BlackRock's Crypto Assets
BlackRock, managing assets worth approximately $11.6 trillion, currently holds over 567,000 Bitcoins valued at over $47.8 billion. Recent data from Arkham Intelligence shows that the latest BTC acquisition was 268 Bitcoins transferred from Coinbase Prime to the iShares Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) wallet. In addition to Bitcoin, BlackRock holds over 1.2 million Ether, valued at about $2.3 billion, and significant amounts of other assets, including the stablecoin USDC and various altcoins.
Crypto ETF Outflows and Their Market Impact
February and early March 2025 marked a period when crypto ETFs experienced significant fund outflows amid macroeconomic uncertainty and fears of a prolonged trade war. For example, the BlackRock iShares Bitcoin fund lost $193 million for the week of March 9.
Including BTC ETF in BlackRock's Model Portfolios
Despite increased volatility, BlackRock added IBIT to its model portfolios in February 2025. These portfolios are preset investment plans featuring diverse financial instruments offered to asset managers for promotion to investors.
BlackRock continues to expand its presence in the cryptocurrency market, emphasizing its commitment to digital assets despite market fluctuations.