UniCredit Bank has launched a new structured investment product linked to BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF, highlighting interest in crypto investments among professional clients.
Description of the New Investment Product
Italian bank UniCredit has introduced an investment product linked to BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF. The product will be available from July 1 to July 28, 2025, exclusively for professional investors in Italy. It offers full capital protection at maturity, meaning investors will not lose their initial investment if they hold the product until the end of the five-year term. However, returns are capped: investors can gain up to 85% of the ETF's upside during the period.
How the Product Works
This new certificate is denominated in U.S. dollars and directly linked to the performance of BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF. It is designed for those looking to gain exposure to Bitcoin without the risk of losing their capital. The minimum investment required is $25,000, reflecting its focus on high-net-worth and institutional clients.
Institutional Demand for Crypto Is Growing
According to UniCredit's investment team, the product was created in response to rising demand from professional clients for structured instruments that provide crypto exposure without the volatility risks typical of direct investments. Other European banks are also cautiously entering the crypto space. Intesa Sanpaolo has initiated Bitcoin trading desks, Deutsche Bank is working on digital asset custody solutions, and Banco Santander is exploring crypto products for retail customers. These moves show a broader trend of traditional finance institutions merging with the digital asset sector.
The launch of UniCredit's new product reflects a growing interest in cryptocurrency investments among professionals and indicates potential further development of institutional offerings in this area.