NEW YORK - BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), Inc., the world's largest asset manager, has announced the launch of the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), set to begin trading on Nasdaq tomorrow. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has declared the registration statement for the spot bitcoin ETF effective, marking a significant milestone for investors seeking exposure to the cryptocurrency market through a regulated exchange-traded fund.
The iShares Bitcoin Trust aims to provide a cost-effective and convenient way for investors to track the price of bitcoin. Dominik Rohe, Head of Americas iShares ETF and Index Investing business at BlackRock, stated that IBIT addresses some of the challenges and operational burdens that have previously deterred investors from directly investing in bitcoin.
BlackRock's iShares boasts over two decades of experience, offering more than 1,300 ETFs globally. The firm manages assets worth $3.12 trillion as of September 30, 2023, and has facilitated market access for over 43 million investors worldwide.
The Trust's value is closely linked to bitcoin's acceptance, industry developments, and governance changes. It is subject to the extreme volatility inherent in digital asset markets, as well as risks associated with the loss, theft, or compromise of private keys. BlackRock emphasizes that the Trust's security procedures are designed to protect its assets, but there is no guarantee that they will be effective against all potential threats.
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