Bitwise Launches Bitcoin ETF Tracking Companies Holding 1,000 BTC

Bitwise Asset Management has introduced the Bitwise Bitcoin Standard Corporations ETF, trading under the ticker OWNB, on the New York Stock Exchange Arca. This innovative exchange-traded fund is designed to track the Bitwise Bitcoin Standard Corporations Index, which includes public companies that hold at least 1,000 bitcoin in their corporate treasuries. The ETF provides investors with a diversified exposure to companies that have adopted Bitcoin as a reserve asset, offering a unique investment strategy in the cryptocurrency space.

The ETF's structure ensures diversification by capping the largest holdings at 20% and assigning a 1.5% weighting to companies with Bitcoin holdings between 1,000 BTC and one-third of their balance sheet. This approach helps maintain balance and prevents any single company from dominating the index. The ETF currently includes over 70 companies that have chosen to hold Bitcoin as part of their business strategy. Notable examples include Strategy, which holds a substantial 499,096 BTC, and other firms such as Marathon Digital, CleanSpark, Riot Platforms, Boyaa Interactive, Metaplanet, Aker ASA, Bitfarms, BitFuFu, and Galaxy Digital.

Bitwise's launch of the OWNB ETF reflects a growing trend among corporations to adopt Bitcoin as a reserve asset. This shift is driven by the increasing mainstream acceptance of Bitcoin and its potential as a store of value. Bitwise President Teddy Fusaro highlighted this trend, stating that more companies are exploring Bitcoin as part of their business strategy. The ETF's launch aligns with the broader trend of institutional adoption of Bitcoin, as more corporations recognize the benefits of holding the cryptocurrency.

The ETF's fee rate is set at 0.85%, making it an accessible option for investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin-holding companies. The launch of the OWNB ETF on the New York Stock Exchange Arca platform further solidifies Bitwise's position as a leading player in the crypto asset management space. The ETF's focus on companies with significant Bitcoin holdings provides investors with a unique opportunity to gain exposure to the growing trend of corporate Bitcoin adoption.

Bitwise has also submitted an S-1 filing for an Aptos ETF and has partnered with Maple Finance for on-chain credit. The firm is also exploring the possibility of launching a Dogecoin ETF and has p