The launch of regulated Bitcoin and Ethereum products on the London Stock Exchange by a major asset manager has accelerated the global adoption of cryptocurrencies, demonstrating widespread institutional alignment, increased regulatory transparency, and rapid integration of cryptocurrencies into global finance.
Listing on LSE marks transition towards global normalization of cryptocurrencies
Momentum towards global crypto normalization is accelerating as major asset managers expand regulated access to Bitcoin and Ethereum investment products. Following regulatory approval, several major companies including BlackRock, Bitwise, 21Shares, and WisdomTree have launched or relaunched cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs) for retail investors on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). The wave of simultaneous listings marks a turning point in the institutionalization of digital assets and highlights the growing consensus among global fund managers that cryptocurrencies are maturing into a mainstream investment class.
Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hogan said this on social media platform X on October 20th.
It’s falling dominoes. Soon, cryptocurrencies will become fully standardized as an investment globally.
Commenting on its listing, Bitwise said: “These listings represent the first time that retail investors in the UK can gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum through exchange-traded products listed on a UK Registered Investment Exchange (RIE) and coincide with the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) decision to lift restrictions on retail access to cryptocurrencies ETP.” Bradley Duke, managing director and head of Europe at Bitwise, added that “the direction of cryptocurrencies is clear,” reflecting growing institutional trust and regulatory clarity in key markets.
BlackRock debuted the iShares Bitcoin ETP, and 21Shares and WisdomTree opened Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs for individual investors, previously reserved for institutional investors. Bitwise has listed four new physically backed MiFID II compliant ETPs and lowered its Core Bitcoin ETP (BTC1) fees to 0.05%, one of the lowest in the industry. 21Shares has lowered fees on its flagship product and WisdomTree has expanded access through ISAs and SIPPs, providing a regulated route for retail investors. Taken together, these efforts represent a global turning point and an industry-wide signal that cryptocurrencies are evolving from niche speculation to a fully integrated component of a diversified portfolio.
FAQ 🧭
- Why is it important for global markets that the UK reopens its crypto ETP?
This marks a major regulatory shift and signals the widespread acceptance and integration of digital assets into traditional investment systems. - Which companies offer retail crypto ETPs on the LSE?
Major companies such as BlackRock, Bitwise, 21Shares and WisdomTree have launched or relaunched Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs for retail investors in the UK. - What benefits do these new crypto ETPs offer investors?
We offer regulated, cost-effective access to top cryptocurrencies through standard brokerage and tax-advantaged accounts. - How will this development affect the cryptocurrency investment landscape?
This strengthens the evolution of cryptocurrencies into a mainstream asset class accepted by major institutional investors around the world.