Bitcoin ETPs Start Trading on the London Stock Exchange

As an analyst with a background in traditional finance and a keen interest in the crypto market, I see today’s launch of the first Bitcoin exchange-traded products (ETPs) on the London Stock Exchange as a pivotal moment for both the UK financial markets and the broader crypto industry.


The UK makes crypto history as the London Stock Exchange debuts its first Bitcoin exchange-traded products (ETPs), granting investors a fresh, regulated avenue to access Bitcoin through conventional financial channels.

— London Stock Exchange (@LSEplc) May 28, 2024

The launch is taking place after receiving the go-ahead from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for asset managers WisdomTree and 21Shares. This approval paved the way for today’s highly anticipated debut, as previously announced in March.

As a researcher, I’d describe it this way: I’ve noticed that two companies have made it possible for investors to trade their Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Products (ETPs) on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). This means that Bitcoin investments can now be traded alongside traditional assets like stocks and bonds, offering more diversity in investment portfolios.

As a crypto investor, I’m excited about the recent additions to the cryptocurrency exchange-traded product (ETP) market. 21Shares swiftly introduced two new Bitcoin offerings: the 21Shares Bitcoin ETN (ABTC) and the 21Shares Bitcoin Core ETN (CBTC). Additionally, WisdomTree entered the scene with its Physical Bitcoin ETN (BTCW). All three ETPs enable investors to gain exposure to the price of Bitcoin, providing a range of choices based on personal preferences.

Under present Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) guidelines, professional investors are the only ones permitted to invest in these Exchange-Traded Products (ETPs). However, according to industry experts, a major transformation is anticipated. As Alex Pollak, CEO of 21Shares UK, put it, “The real turning point in the UK market will be when the retail ban on trading bitcoin and ether ETNs is lifted.”

Today’s Bitcoin debut isn’t just a victory for cryptocurrency acceptance, but also a boost to London’s ambitions of being a leading global digital asset hub. Major financial capitals like the US, Europe, and Hong Kong have already introduced regulated Bitcoin funds. As a result, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in London is under pressure to follow suit.

As a researcher, I’ve come across an intriguing perspective from Ophelia Snyder, co-founder of 21Shares. She highlighted that the United Kingdom boasts one of the most extensive and fluid capital markets globally.

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2024-05-28 19:33