2026 Complete List of Bitcoin ETFs with Their Fees and Holdings
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While both spot and futures Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) allow investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin through traditional stock brokerage accounts, they are structurally very different assets.
A Spot Bitcoin ETF holds actual physical Bitcoin in institutional cold storage vaults. A Futures Bitcoin ETF holds cash-settled futures contracts traded on derivatives exchanges like the CME (Chicago Mercantile Exchange). Over long periods, futures contracts must be continually sold and re-bought ("rolled forward"), creating a cost phenomenon known as contango decay that quietly drags down long-term returns.
This guide explains the structural differences between spot and futures funds, compares the major US-listed Bitcoin ETFs on fees and AUM, and details how Malaysian residents can legally access them.
Spot vs Futures Bitcoin ETFs: Key Differences
| Feature | Spot Bitcoin ETF | Futures Bitcoin ETF |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying Asset | Physical Bitcoin held in secure digital asset custody vaults | CME Bitcoin Futures derivative contracts |
| Price Tracking | Directly tracks the real-time spot price of Bitcoin | Tracks monthly futures contract prices (Subject to roll yields) |
| Contango Risk | None. No contract expirations or roll costs | High. Rolling expiring contracts can cause annual performance drag |
| Expense Ratio | Low (Typically 0.15% to 0.25% p.a.) | Higher (Typically 0.65% to 0.95%+ p.a.) |
| Best Used For | Long-term buy-and-hold investors wanting direct exposure | Short-term tactical trading, hedging, or specialized strategies |
Top US Spot & Futures Bitcoin ETFs Compared
US regulators approved spot Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024, unlocking institutional liquidity. Below is a snapshot of the major active funds traded on US exchanges (NASDAQ, NYSE, Cboe).
Major Spot Bitcoin ETFs
| Fund Name | Ticker | Issuer | Standard Expense Ratio | Primary Custodian |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iShares Bitcoin Trust | IBIT | BlackRock | 0.25% p.a. | Coinbase Custody |
| Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund | FBTC | Fidelity Investments | 0.25% p.a. | Fidelity Digital Assets |
| Bitwise Bitcoin ETF Trust | BITB | Bitwise | 0.20% p.a. | Coinbase Custody |
| ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF | ARKB | ARK Invest & 21Shares | 0.21% p.a. | Coinbase Custody |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust | BTC | Grayscale Investments | 0.15% p.a. | Coinbase Custody |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF | GBTC | Grayscale Investments | 1.50% p.a. | Coinbase Custody |
Major Futures & Strategy Bitcoin ETFs
| Fund Name | Ticker | Issuer | Expense Ratio | Primary Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF | BITO | ProShares | 0.95% p.a. | Front-month CME Bitcoin futures |
| Global X Blockchain & Bitcoin Strategy | BITS | Global X | 0.65% p.a. | Active Bitcoin futures + Blockchain equities |
| ProShares UltraShort Bitcoin ETF | SBIT | ProShares | 0.95% p.a. |
What exactly are Bitcoin ETFs
Bitcoin ETFs are exchange-traded funds designed to track the value of Bitcoin and trade on traditional stock market exchanges, such as the NYSE, instead of cryptocurrency exchanges.
They enable investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements without the need to directly purchase, store, or manage Bitcoin itself. This makes Bitcoin ETFs an appealing option for those seeking simplified access to the cryptocurrency market.
How do Bitcoin ETFs work?
A Bitcoin ETF operates like any other exchange-traded fund. The price of one share of the ETF reflects the value of its underlying asset—in this case, Bitcoin. When Bitcoin’s price rises, the ETF’s share price rises accordingly, and vice versa.
Unlike holding Bitcoin directly through a wallet or cryptocurrency exchange, Bitcoin ETFs are traded on traditional stock exchanges. This provides investors with the ease of buying and selling Bitcoin exposure through a broker, without dealing with the technical challenges or risks associated with holding cryptocurrency.
Why buy Bitcoin ETFs?
Bitcoin ETFs simplify the process of investing in Bitcoin by allowing investors to gain exposure through regulated stock exchanges. These funds eliminate the complexities of managing private keys, wallets, and secure storage, which are common concerns for direct Bitcoin ownership.
Additionally, Bitcoin ETFs offer:
- Diversification: They enable investors to add Bitcoin exposure to a broader portfolio with ease.
- Liquidity: ETFs trade like stocks, making them highly liquid and accessible during market hours.
- Regulation: ETFs are overseen by financial regulators, reducing risks associated with unregulated crypto exchanges.
- Flexibility: They allow for different strategies, such as futures-based investments or direct Bitcoin holdings, depending on the ETF type.
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What is a spot Bitcoin ETF?
A spot Bitcoin ETF is an exchange-traded fund that directly tracks the price of Bitcoin by holding the cryptocurrency itself. Similar to spot gold ETFs, which store physical gold bullion, spot Bitcoin ETFs purchase and store Bitcoin as their primary asset. This structure allows the fund to closely mirror Bitcoin’s price movements. For example, if Bitcoin’s price rises by 10%, the ETF’s value is expected to increase by a similar percentage, minus management fees.
Before 2024, Bitcoin-related ETFs were limited to futures-based ETFs or funds investing in crypto-related equities. However, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved the first spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024, making them the first cryptocurrency funds to trade on major exchanges while holding Bitcoin directly.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs are ideal for investors who want exposure to Bitcoin’s price performance without the complexities of using cryptocurrency exchanges or the responsibility of securely storing digital assets.
The fund managers handle Bitcoin custody, offering investors peace of mind by ensuring security and compliance. Additionally, these ETFs are easy to buy and trade through traditional brokerage accounts, providing seamless access to Bitcoin within a regulated framework.
By simplifying Bitcoin investment and offering the security of professional asset management, spot Bitcoin ETFs have opened the door for a wider range of investors to participate in the cryptocurrency market.
List of spot Bitcoin ETFs
| ETF Name | Ticker | AUM | Expense Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| iShares Bitcoin Trust | IBIT | $52.8B USD | 0.25% |
| Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund | FBTC | $12.8B USD | 0.25% |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF | GBTC | $10.6B USD | 1.50% |
| ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF | ARKB | $2.45B USD | 0.21% |
| Bitwise Bitcoin ETF Trust | BITB | $2.71B USD | 0.20% |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust | BTC | $3.49B USD | 0.15% |
| VanEck Bitcoin Trust | HODL | $1.17B USD | 0.25% |
| Coinshares Bitcoin ETF | BRRR | $424M USD | 0.25% |
| Invesco Galaxy Bitcoin ETF | BTCO | $449.7M USD | 0.25% |
| Franklin Templeton Digital Holdings Trust | EZBC | $417 USD | 0.29% |
| WisdomTree Bitcoin Fund | BTCW | $140.6M USD | 0.25% |
| Hashdex Bitcoin ETF | DEFI | $9.28M USD | 0.25% |
Source: ETF Database (as of 5 Mar 2026)
What is a Bitcoin futures ETF?
Bitcoin futures ETFs differ from spot Bitcoin ETFs in that they do not directly hold Bitcoin. Instead, these ETFs invest in Bitcoin futures contracts, which are standardized agreements to buy or sell a specified amount of Bitcoin at a predetermined price on a future date. The ETF manager actively handles these contracts on behalf of investors, and the fund’s returns are reflected in its net asset value (NAV).
While Bitcoin futures may generally move in the same direction as Bitcoin’s spot price, they can be more volatile. This can lead to tracking errors, where the ETF’s performance deviates from Bitcoin’s actual price movements. For investors who want a fund to mirror Bitcoin’s performance precisely, this limitation is a significant drawback.
Additionally, Bitcoin futures ETFs often charge higher management fees compared to spot ETFs, adding to their costs.
Are Bitcoin strategy ETFs the same as Bitcoin futures ETFs?
Bitcoin strategy ETFs and Bitcoin futures ETFs overlap in some aspects but are not identical. Bitcoin futures ETFs are a type of Bitcoin strategy ETF, but the broader category of strategy ETFs may also include funds that invest in Bitcoin-related equities, such as mining companies or blockchain technology firms.
| Bitcoin Futures ETFs | Bitcoin Strategy ETFs | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Exclusively invest in Bitcoin futures contracts. | Diversify into Bitcoin-related assets such as mining companies, blockchain equities, or derivatives. |
| Performance Tracking | Aims to follow Bitcoin’s price via futures contracts but often experiences tracking errors. | Performance may deviate further due to diversified holdings that may not directly correlate with Bitcoin’s price. |
| Investment Scope | Limited to futures contracts tied to Bitcoin. | Broader investment scope, including equities and other Bitcoin-related assets. |
| Availability | Introduced in 2021 as an early option for Bitcoin exposure. | Existed before spot ETFs, offering diversified approaches to Bitcoin-related investments. |
| Volatility | Subject to higher volatility due to the nature of futures contracts. | Volatility depends on the mix of assets in the fund, which may reduce or increase risk. |
| Purpose | Designed for investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin’s price through futures contracts. | Suitable for investors looking for indirect exposure to Bitcoin and broader crypto-related markets. |
While Bitcoin futures ETFs and Bitcoin strategy ETFs are both indirect ways to invest in Bitcoin, the key difference lies in their underlying investment strategies and diversification. Investors should assess their goals and risk tolerance when deciding between these types of funds.
List of strategy Bitcoin ETFs & Bitcoin Futures ETFs
| ETF Name | Ticker | AUM | Expense Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2x Bitcoin Strategy ETF | BITX | $952.4M USD | 2.38% |
| ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF | BITO | $1.8B USD | 0.95% |
| ProShares Ultra Bitcoin ETF | BITU | $379M USD | 0.95% |
| Valkyrie Bitcoin Miners ETF | WGMI | $201.69M USD | 0.75% |
| ProShares Short Bitcoin ETF | BITI | $135.55M USD | 1.03% |
| Simplify Bitcoin Strategy PLUS Income ETF | MAXI | $31.22M USD | 1.00% |
| ProShares UltraShort Bitcoin ETF | SBIT | $199.9M USD | 0.95% |
| T-Rex 2X Long Bitcoin Daily Target ETF | BTCL | $27.25M USD | 0.95% |
| CoinShares Bitcoin and Ether Strategy ETF | BTF | $14.9M USD | 1.27% |
| Global X Blockchain & Bitcoin Strategy ETF | BITS | $24.7M USD | 0.65% |
| CoinShares Valkyrie Bitcoin Futures Leveraged Strategy ETF | BTFX | $7.75M USD | 1.86% |
| ARK 21Shares Active Bitcoin Futures Strategy ETF | ARKA | $8.5M USD | 0.70% |
| ProShares Bitcoin & Ether Market Cap Weight Strategy ETF | BETH | $11.8M USD | 0.95% |
| Bitwise Bitcoin Strategy Optimum Roll ETF | BITC | $15.4M USD | 0.90% |
| ProShares Bitcoin & Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF | BETE | $8.1M USD | 1.33% |
| Bitwise Bitcoin and Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF | BTOP | $4.2M USD | 0.89% |
| T-Rex 2X Inverse Bitcoin Daily Target ETF | BTCZ | $19.3M USD | 0.95% |
Source: etfdb.com (as of 5 Mar 2026)
These ETFs offer exposure to Bitcoin’s ecosystem while diversifying across assets related to cryptocurrency markets.
How to buy Bitcoin ETF?
Investors must have a brokerage account to purchase Bitcoin ETFs shares, similar to buying stocks or other ETFs. Once the account is set up, investors can search for the ETF using its ticker symbol and place a market or limit order to buy shares. Selling shares follows a similar process through the same brokerage account.
Bitcoin ETFs are generally liquid, allowing investors to trade during market hours, but their liquidity can vary based on trading volume and the underlying asset. Transaction costs include brokerage fees and annual expense ratios, which are automatically deducted to cover operational costs.
The ETF’s price may fluctuate from its Net Asset Value (NAV) due to supply and demand, but authorized participants ensure the ETF price aligns with the NAV by creating or redeeming shares as needed. All trades are subject to the operating hours of the exchange where the ETF is listed.
How Malaysians Can Access Bitcoin ETFs
Malaysian retail investors cannot currently buy domestic spot Bitcoin ETFs on Bursa Malaysia, as the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) framework for local digital currency ETF listings continues to evolve.
However, Malaysian residents can legally purchase US-listed Bitcoin ETFs through regulated international brokerage channels and local digital wealth platforms:
1. Global Stock Brokerages Operating in Malaysia
You can purchase tickers like IBIT, FBTC, or BITB using foreign stock trading accounts that offer direct access to US markets (NASDAQ / NYSE):
- Interactive Brokers (IBKR): Direct access to US-listed spot and futures ETFs with low trading commissions.
- Moomoo Malaysia / Tiger Brokers: Regulated local brokerages allowing US market access directly in MYR via FPX deposits.
- Rakuten Trade: Offers US market trading access for Malaysian retail investors.
2. Robo-Advisors & Managed Digital Portfolios
Certain licensed digital investment management (DIM) platforms in Malaysia, such as StashAway (via ETF Explorer / Flexible Portfolios), allow investors to gain exposure to US-listed Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs within a regulated local interface.
Buying Bitcoin ETFs with StashAway's ETF Explorer
StashAway, Malaysia's leading digital investment platform, now offers Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) ETFs as part of its ETF Explorer. This allows investors to gain exposure to the two largest cryptocurrencies through a trusted and regulated platform, addressing common concerns like security risks and the complexities of navigating crypto exchanges.
The availability of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs enables StashAway clients to diversify their portfolios with crypto while benefiting from a user-friendly interface and transparent fees.
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What are the risks and challenges of Bitcoin ETFs?
Investing in Bitcoin ETFs comes with several challenges and risks that investors should carefully consider before making decisions.
The most significant risk is Bitcoin’s inherent volatility, which often leads to substantial price fluctuations in Bitcoin ETFs. Investors must be prepared for rapid changes in value, which can result in significant losses. Additionally, Bitcoin ETFs come with management fees, such as expense ratios, which can erode returns over time, especially for long-term investors.
Regulatory risks are another key concern. Changes in cryptocurrency regulations could impact the operation, availability, or structure of Bitcoin ETFs, potentially affecting their performance or investor access. Moreover, the management of the underlying Bitcoin holdings requires secure custody solutions, as any breach in security or mismanagement could harm investor confidence and the ETF’s value.
Tax implications also present a challenge, as they can differ significantly from directly holding Bitcoin, depending on the investor's jurisdiction. Investors need to be aware of specific tax laws and potential liabilities associated with Bitcoin ETF investments in their region. Understanding these risks is critical to making informed investment decisions.
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