Warsaw Joins ETF Wave: Bitcoin BETA With CME Futures, PLN Hedge

The Warsaw Stock Exchange (GPW) has debuted its first-ever crypto ETF, the Bitcoin BETA ETF, providing regulated exposure to Bitcoin...

Quick overview

  • The Warsaw Stock Exchange has launched its first crypto ETF, the Bitcoin BETA ETF, which offers regulated exposure to Bitcoin through futures contracts.
  • The ETF, developed by AgioFunds TFI, utilizes USD/PLN hedging to manage currency risk and is backed by Dom Maklerski Banku Ochrony Środowiska S.A. as its market maker.
  • Globally, interest in crypto ETFs is rising, with over 90 filings for altcoin ETFs and a potential for more than 100 new crypto ETFs in the next year due to regulatory changes.
  • The introduction of the Bitcoin BETA ETF aligns with a broader trend of regulated crypto investment options, enhancing safety and transparency for investors.

The Warsaw Stock Exchange (GPW) has debuted its first-ever crypto ETF, the Bitcoin BETA ETF, providing regulated exposure to Bitcoin without holding physical coins. Instead, the fund invests in Bitcoin futures traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), employing forward contracts to hedge USD/PLN currency risk.

Developed by AgioFunds TFI and approved by Poland’s Financial Supervision Authority in June, the ETF uses Dom Maklerski Banku Ochrony Środowiska S.A. as its market maker. Michał Kobza, GPW board member, emphasized that the ETF allows investors to access the cryptocurrency market under the safety and transparency standards of a regulated exchange.

  • Exposure: CME Bitcoin futures
  • Risk management: USD/PLN hedging via forwards
  • Market maker: Dom Maklerski Banku Ochrony Środowiska S.A.

Global Crypto ETF Landscape

Bitcoin ETFs have gained significant traction worldwide. In the U.S., spot and futures-based ETFs have been listed on Nasdaq, NYSE, and Cboe since early 2024. Other key markets include the Toronto Stock Exchange, Germany’s Xetra, Switzerland’s SIX Exchange, Brazil’s B3, and Cboe Australia.

Globally, ETFs vary in structure: some are physically backed by Bitcoin, while others, like GPW’s Bitcoin BETA ETF, rely on futures. Analysts note growing interest in altcoin ETFs, with Bloomberg tracking over 90 filings, signaling increasing diversification beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

  • Physical vs. futures-based ETFs: variety of investment options
  • Altcoin ETFs: growing presence in global markets
  • Total filings: 90+ crypto-related ETFs and ETPs

Regulatory Tailwinds for ETF Growth

The momentum for crypto ETFs is expected to accelerate after the SEC approved generic listing standards for commodity-based trust shares in the U.S. This rule allows exchanges to list qualifying spot crypto ETFs without requiring a full review for each product.

Eric Balchunas, Bloomberg ETF analyst, highlighted the impact: “The last time a generic listing standard was implemented, ETF launches tripled. We could see over 100 crypto ETFs launched in the next 12 months.” Such regulatory clarity could pave the way for further adoption of ETFs like Bitcoin BETA, providing institutional and retail investors with safer and more transparent access to digital assets.

  • Regulatory impact: Streamlined approval for spot ETFs
  • Adoption: Boost for institutional and retail investors
  • Market forecast: Potential 100+ crypto ETF launches in 12 months

With this listing, Warsaw joins a growing global trend of regulated crypto ETFs, expanding the avenues for investors to participate in digital asset markets safely.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More
Arslan Butt
Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)
Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.

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