BlackRock Integrates Bitcoin ETF Into Model Portfolios

BlackRock has made a significant move by allocating 1% to 2% of its model portfolios to the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT), a first for the asset management giant, amid a volatile cryptocurrency market. This decision, described as a potential game changer for Bitcoin's institutional acceptance, comes after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved several spot Bitcoin ETFs, boosting investor confidence. The integration of Bitcoin into these portfolios aims to attract risk-tolerant investors and reflects a growing openness in traditional finance towards cryptocurrencies. Despite recent market downturns, IBIT has shown strong performance, holding nearly 576,046 BTC and becoming one of the largest Bitcoin ETFs in the sector. Additionally, BlackRock's deposit of $190 million in Bitcoin into Coinbase Prime underscores its serious commitment to managing its Bitcoin holdings through regulated channels. Analysts believe this could catalyze wider adoption of Bitcoin among institutional investors, further legitimizing the asset in the financial landscape.