No Appetite for Solana ETF, Says BlackRock CIO: Focus Remains on Bitcoin and Ethereum

• The conversation around crypto ETFs, particularly for altcoins, has been heating up.
• The focus, however, remains heavily inclined towards Bitcoin and Ethereum, according to industry experts.
• BlackRock’s CIO has recently provided insights that further clarify the trajectory of crypto ETFs moving forward.

Discover why the appetite for Solana and other altcoin ETFs is lacking, and what that means for the future of crypto investments.

BlackRock Dismisses Solana ETF Considerations

In an interview with Bloomberg, Samara Cohen, BlackRock’s CIO for ETF and Index Investments, clarified the fund manager’s position on the introduction of a spot Solana ETF or any other altcoin-focused ETFs. Cohen emphasized that the firm currently has no ambitions to pursue these ETFs, citing a lack of market appetite outside of Bitcoin and Ethereum. These two cryptocurrencies align with BlackRock’s investability criteria, unlike their altcoin counterparts.

Technical and Market Viability Challenges

Cohen also voiced concerns over the technical challenges and market viability of altcoin ETFs. Due to liquidity and manipulation risks, introducing altcoin ETFs such as Solana’s could be problematic. This stance aligns with that of BlackRock’s head of digital assets, Robert Mitchnick, who echoed a similar sentiment during a recent Bitcoin conference. According to him, there’s no immediate prospect for launching additional crypto ETFs.

Crypto ETFs and Model Portfolios

While altcoin ETFs are facing hurdles, Cohen provided a glimpse into a promising future for established crypto assets. By the end of 2024, crypto ETFs, particularly those centered on Bitcoin and Ethereum, are anticipated to be part of model portfolios at major financial institutions such as Wells Fargo and UBS. These wirehouses are currently performing rigorous due diligence to incorporate these assets effectively.

BlackRock’s Success with Ethereum ETF

BlackRock recently launched the iShares Ethereum Trust ETF (ETHA), which has garnered significant traction and inflows. This success story serves as a testament to the market’s current appetite for well-established cryptocurrencies over emerging altcoins. This shift indicates a more cautious approach by institutional investors focusing on proven assets.

Conclusion

In summary, while the broader community of crypto enthusiasts may yearn for a variety of altcoin ETFs, the current market and technical conditions favor Bitcoin and Ethereum. BlackRock’s strategic focus on these established assets underscores a prudent approach aligned with market demand and investability. As institutional interest grows, the inclusion of crypto ETFs in model portfolios represents a significant step toward mainstreaming digital currencies.

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