Introduction

This is Doc. If you’ve been following what’s happening in the crypto space, you’ll know that ETFs have changed the game. With spot Bitcoin ETFs approved and the door opening for Ethereum and even Solana ETFs, there are new ways to get exposure without having to deal with private keys or exchanges. But knowing what’s out there, where to buy, and what to watch out for is key.

Let’s go through the latest updates and how you can get in on the action.

What Are Crypto ETFs?

Crypto ETFs are exchange-traded funds that track the price of Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other assets, allowing investors to buy and sell them on stock exchanges just like traditional shares. They provide exposure to crypto without the need for self-custody or direct transactions with exchanges.

Types of Crypto ETFs:

  • Spot ETFs: These hold the actual crypto assets, meaning their value directly reflects the market price.
  • Futures ETFs: These track futures contracts instead of the actual asset, making them more prone to fluctuations due to derivatives trading.

Latest Crypto ETF News (February 2025)

  • Ethereum ETFs on the Horizon? There’s growing speculation that Ethereum spot ETFs could be approved soon, with firms like BlackRock and Fidelity pushing for them.
  • Solana ETF Filing Franklin Templeton has filed for a Solana ETF, expanding the investment options beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.
  • XRP ETF Speculation With Ripple’s regulatory battles easing, there’s talk of an XRP ETF entering the mix.

These developments are worth watching since they could bring more institutional money into the crypto space.

Where to Buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Altcoin ETFs

If you want to buy into these ETFs, here are some of the main platforms offering them:

1. Traditional Brokerages

  • Fidelity (Offers IBIT, BITO, and may add Ethereum ETFs soon)
  • Charles Schwab (Bitcoin ETFs available, Ethereum may follow)
  • Vanguard (Less crypto-friendly but some ETFs are accessible)
macbook pro on brown wooden table
Photo by Joshua Mayo / Unsplash

2. Online Trading Platforms

  • eToro (Provides access to Bitcoin and other digital asset ETFs)
  • Robinhood (Simple access to Bitcoin ETFs with commission-free trading)
  • Interactive Brokers (More advanced trading options for ETFs)

3. International Access

For non-US traders, platforms like FTX Australia, Canada’s Purpose Bitcoin ETF, and Germany’s Deutsche Boerse offerings provide alternative ways to invest in crypto ETFs.

How to Buy a Crypto ETF (Step-by-Step Guide)

  1. Choose a Broker – Select a brokerage that offers crypto ETFs. Compare platforms based on fees, availability, and ease of use.
  2. Open an Account – Sign up and go through identity verification (KYC) as required by the platform.
  3. Deposit Funds – Transfer money to your brokerage account via bank transfer, debit card, or wire transfer.
  4. Find the ETF – Use the search function to locate the specific ETF you want to buy (e.g., IBIT for BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF, BITB for Bitwise, etc.).
  5. Decide on Your Investment Amount – Determine how much you want to invest. Consider starting small and scaling in over time.
  6. Place Your Order – Choose between a market order (buy at the current price) or a limit order (buy at a specific price you set).
  7. Monitor Your Investment – Keep an eye on price movements, regulatory developments, and news that could impact the ETF’s performance.
  8. Consider a Long-Term or Short-Term Strategy – Decide whether you’re holding long-term or actively trading based on market conditions.
  9. Review Your Portfolio Regularly – Adjust your position if needed based on market trends and your investment goals.
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Photo by Robin Schreiner / Unsplash

Key Considerations Before Buying

  • Regulatory Risks – ETFs depend on government policies and approvals.
  • Market Volatility – Crypto moves fast; ETF prices will reflect that.
  • Management Fees – Some ETFs charge higher fees, so check expense ratios before investing.
  • Liquidity and Trading Volume – Higher liquidity means better price execution and lower spreads.
  • Long-Term vs. Short-Term Approach – Consider whether you’re investing for the long haul or trading short-term price swings.

DYOR & Final Thoughts

Crypto ETFs are a major development, offering traditional investors exposure to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and soon, altcoins like Solana and XRP. But remember—just because it’s an ETF doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.

Always do your own research (DYOR) before investing, and understand that the crypto space is unpredictable. This is not financial advice—make decisions based on your own risk tolerance.