The world of digital assets has entered a new era of mainstream adoption, and one of the most accessible ways for investors to gain exposure to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin is through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These financial instruments offer a regulated, stock-like way to invest in blockchain technology and Bitcoin without directly owning or storing the underlying crypto. As the market rebounds from previous downturns and institutional interest grows, now is an opportune time to explore the top-performing blockchain and Bitcoin ETFs.
This article explores the 15 best blockchain and Bitcoin ETFs based on performance, holdings, and strategic positioning in the evolving digital asset landscape. Whether you're interested in direct Bitcoin exposure or companies leveraging blockchain innovation, this guide provides actionable insights for informed investment decisions.
Market Outlook: A New Bull Run on the Horizon?
After significant losses in 2022 and early 2023, the cryptocurrency market has shown strong recovery momentum. Bitcoin’s price has been climbing steadily since October 2023, nearing its all-time high from late 2021. This resurgence is largely driven by growing retail and institutional demand — particularly following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in early 2024.
On March 4 alone, net inflows into U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs reached approximately $562 million**, signaling strong market confidence. Analysts project that Bitcoin could reach new highs in 2025, with some forecasts estimating a peak of **$88,000 by year-end. While predictions vary — with conservative estimates around $35,000 — many experts believe the upcoming Bitcoin halving event in April 2024 will reduce supply and potentially fuel further price appreciation.
👉 Discover how ETFs are shaping the future of crypto investing.
Beyond Bitcoin, blockchain technology is gaining traction across industries such as finance, supply chain, and retail. The global blockchain market was valued at $7.4 billion in 2022 and is projected to surpass **$94 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 66.2%**. This explosive growth underscores the long-term potential of blockchain-focused investments.
Our Methodology
To compile this list, we analyzed consensus picks from reputable financial sources and evaluated each ETF based on:
- 5-year share price performance (as of March 15, 2024)
- Net assets under management (AUM)
- Expense ratios
- Top holdings and sector exposure
- Fund launch date and management strategy
While not all funds have five full years of data — especially newer spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in January 2024 — we prioritized funds with strong performance, credible backing, and transparent structures.
Top 15 Blockchain and Bitcoin ETFs
15. Siren Nasdaq NexGen Economy ETF (BLCN)
5-Year Performance: +22.74% | Expense Ratio: 0.68% | AUM: $81.08M
The Siren Nasdaq NexGen Economy ETF (BLCN) tracks the NASDAQ Blockchain Economy Index, investing in companies actively involved in blockchain development or adoption. With a diversified portfolio of 55 stocks, BLCN offers broad exposure to the blockchain ecosystem.
Top holdings include MicroStrategy (MSTR), Coinbase Global (COIN), and NVIDIA (NVDA) — all key players in the crypto space. MicroStrategy, a major Bitcoin holder, continues to influence investor sentiment through its aggressive BTC acquisition strategy.
14. First Trust Indxx Innovative Transaction & Process ETF (LEGR)
5-Year Performance: +47.08% | Expense Ratio: 0.65% | AUM: $104.61M
LEGR follows the Indxx Blockchain Index, focusing on firms that use or benefit from blockchain technology to improve business efficiency. Its portfolio includes 102 stocks across fintech, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.
NVIDIA (NVDA) is the top holding, reflecting the critical role of GPU-powered computing in blockchain mining and AI-driven financial systems. With strong demand for data center solutions, NVIDIA remains a cornerstone of many blockchain ETFs.
13. ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW)
5-Year Performance: +56.05% | Expense Ratio: 0.88% | AUM: $1.52B
Actively managed by Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest, ARKW targets companies shaping the next generation of internet technologies — including blockchain, decentralized finance (DeFi), and digital wallets.
Coinbase Global (COIN) is its largest holding. After reporting strong Q4 earnings in February 2024 — beating revenue expectations by over $134 million — Coinbase saw its stock surge. ARK Invest remains bullish, citing COIN’s leadership in a consolidating crypto exchange market.
12. Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB)
5-Year Performance: +57.39% | Expense Ratio: Not applicable | AUM: $2.04B
Launched in January 2024, BITB provides direct exposure to Bitcoin through a regulated ETF structure. Managed by Bitwise — a trusted name in institutional crypto asset management — BITB holds actual Bitcoin and offers low-cost access via traditional brokerage accounts.
With over $2 billion in assets, BITB ranks among the fastest-growing spot Bitcoin ETFs.
11. WisdomTree Bitcoin Fund (BTCW)
5-Year Performance: +57.50% | Expense Ratio: 0.25% | AUM: $75.18M
BTCW aims to track Bitcoin’s price using trade data from major exchanges. Despite smaller AUM compared to peers, it offers one of the lowest expense ratios among spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Its valuation is updated daily using an independent pricing mechanism, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
10. ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB)
5-Year Performance: +57.66% | Expense Ratio: 0.21% | AUM: $1.52B
A collaboration between ARK Invest and 21Shares, ARKB tracks the CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate. It combines ARK’s innovation focus with 21Shares’ expertise in digital asset ETFs.
Low fees and strong institutional backing make ARKB a compelling choice for long-term Bitcoin investors.
9. Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC)
5-Year Performance: +57.71% | Expense Ratio: Not applicable | AUM: $6.43B
Fidelity’s entry into the spot Bitcoin ETF space has been highly successful. FBTC tracks Bitcoin’s performance using Fidelity’s proprietary reference rate.
With over $6 billion in assets, FBTC is one of the largest and most trusted options for retirement and institutional investors.
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8. VanEck Bitcoin Trust ETF (HODL)
5-Year Performance: +57.78% | Expense Ratio: 0.20% | AUM: $532.56M
HODL is a passively managed trust that holds physical Bitcoin. Launched just weeks before other major players, it quickly gained traction due to VanEck’s long-standing advocacy for crypto regulation.
Its low expense ratio and straightforward structure appeal to cost-conscious investors.
7. iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT)
5-Year Performance: +69.35% | Sponsor Fee: 0.25% | AUM: $15.94B
Backed by BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, IBIT has become the dominant player in the spot Bitcoin ETF market with nearly $16 billion in assets.
Its rapid growth reflects widespread trust in BlackRock’s brand and infrastructure, making IBIT a go-to choice for both retail and institutional investors.
6. Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK)
5-Year Performance: +97.55% | Expense Ratio: 0.76% | AUM: $711.95M
BLOK is one of the highest-performing blockchain ETFs over five years. It invests in companies involved in blockchain innovation across sectors like cybersecurity, payments, and decentralized applications.
Top holdings include Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY), Coinbase (COIN), and NVIDIA (NVDA) — offering diversified exposure beyond just cryptocurrency prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a Bitcoin ETF?
A: A Bitcoin ETF is an exchange-traded fund that tracks the price of Bitcoin without requiring investors to directly buy or store the cryptocurrency. It trades like a stock on traditional exchanges.
Q: Are Bitcoin ETFs safe?
A: Yes, spot Bitcoin ETFs approved by the SEC are regulated and held with custodians, reducing risks associated with self-custody wallets or exchanges.
Q: How do blockchain ETFs differ from Bitcoin ETFs?
A: Blockchain ETFs invest in companies developing or using blockchain technology (e.g., software firms), while Bitcoin ETFs hold actual Bitcoin or futures contracts tied to its price.
Q: Can I hold Bitcoin ETFs in my IRA?
A: Yes, many brokerage platforms allow investors to include approved Bitcoin ETFs in retirement accounts like IRAs.
Q: Which is better — direct Bitcoin ownership or a Bitcoin ETF?
A: ETFs offer convenience, security, and integration with traditional brokerage accounts, while direct ownership gives full control but requires secure storage solutions.
Q: Do these ETFs pay dividends?
A: Most spot Bitcoin ETFs do not pay dividends since they track an asset that doesn’t generate income. However, some blockchain company-focused ETFs may offer dividend yields.
Final Thoughts
As digital assets become increasingly integrated into mainstream finance, Bitcoin and blockchain ETFs provide a secure, accessible gateway for investors at all levels. From BlackRock’s IBIT to niche funds like BLCN and BLOK, there are options tailored to different risk appetites and investment goals.
Whether you're betting on Bitcoin’s long-term value or the transformative power of blockchain technology, these ETFs offer diversified exposure backed by professional management.
👉 Start exploring regulated crypto investment opportunities today.