Despite the rising popularity of Bitcoin ETFs, Vanguard's $7.2 trillion fund refuses to join the fray. ETF analyst Eric Balchunas exposes Vanguard's stance, highlighting their view of commodities as mere speculation and questioning their restrictive policies.
Bitcoin ETFs and Vanguard’s $7.2 Trillion Snub
According to the most credible ETF analyst, Eric Balchunas, Pennsylvania-based financial behemoth Vanguard is hesitant to deal with Bitcoin exchange-traded funds mostly because it is not interested in commodities in general.
Because commodities are "only worth what someone else will pay you," Vanguard—which manages a portfolio of $7.2 trillion—sees them as "pure speculation."
Vanguard’s "Nanny State" Approach to Bitcoin ETFs
Also, according to the leading analyst, Vanguard's move to outright ban Bitcoin exchange-traded funds was "a bit nanny state-ish." Their knowledgeable investors, he argues, should have the freedom to choose for themselves whether to participate in the novel asset.
As reported by U.Today, BlackRock and a number of other firms successfully introduced Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in January. Nevertheless, the Bitcoin community reacted negatively when Vanguard decided to restrict all ETFs on its website.
Vanguard’s CEO Linked to Bitcoin ETF History
The newly hired CEO of Vanguard, Salim Ramji, was an executive at BlackRock and oversaw the successful launch of the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT). Ramji denied rumors that BlackRock was planning to introduce a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF), despite his purported Bitcoin friendliness.
The most recent numbers show that a sum of $2.6 trillion is managed by Vanguard's ETFs. Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI), Invesco QQQ Trust Series I (QQQ), and Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF (VEA) are some of its most prominent exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
Vanguard Marks 50 Years Amid Bitcoin ETF Debate
Just lately, the financial powerhouse commemorated the golden anniversary of its incorporation, but its reluctance to engage with Bitcoin ETFs continues to spark debate in the financial world.