TL;DR
- BlackRock launches its first Bitcoin ETF in Europe, reinforcing its commitment to digital assets following the success of its U.S.-based fund.
- The product will be listed on Xetra, Euronext Paris, and Amsterdam, with an initial promotional fee of just 0.15% until the end of the year.
- Coinbase will serve as the custodian of the physical Bitcoin, ensuring real asset backing for both institutional and qualified retail investors.
Financial giant BlackRock, known as the world’s largest asset manager, has taken a major step forward in supporting crypto adoption across Europe. The firm has officially announced the launch of its new exchange-traded product (ETP) tied to Bitcoin: the iShares Bitcoin ETP (IB1T). This product marks BlackRock’s first foray into crypto-linked instruments outside North America and represents a historic moment for the region’s financial sector.
The ETP will begin trading this Tuesday on Xetra (Germany) and on Euronext Paris and Amsterdam, using the tickers IB1T and BTCN respectively. The fund will be backed by physically held Bitcoin, with custody managed by Coinbase, one of the most recognized and regulated crypto platforms on the market. The issuance will be carried out by a Swiss-domiciled special purpose vehicle, ensuring compliance with high regulatory and transparency standards.
Promotional Fees and Institutional Appeal
In a strategic move to attract investors from day one, BlackRock will apply a reduced fee of 0.15% until the end of the year, making it one of the lowest-cost products in the market. After the promotional period, the fee will revert to 0.25%, aligning with major competitors like CoinShares’ flagship Bitcoin ETP.
This step reinforces the growing belief that digital assets are no longer reserved for enthusiasts or speculative traders, but are increasingly becoming part of institutional investment strategies. Manuela Sperandeo, Head of iShares for Europe and the Middle East, stated,
“We’re witnessing a tipping point in the industry, with increasing demand from both informed retail investors and institutional players.”
She also emphasized that Europe’s evolving regulatory environment now allows for greater security and confidence in launching such products.
Europe Moves Toward More Mature Crypto Adoption
Although crypto ETPs have been available in Europe for years, the market remains modest compared to the U.S., standing at $13.6 billion versus BlackRock’s $48 billion U.S. Bitcoin fund. However, with this launch, institutional participation and investor trust are expected to rise significantly.
The arrival of a heavyweight like BlackRock in the European crypto market not only further legitimizes Bitcoin but could also be the catalyst for a new wave of adoption and regulatory progress.
