Bitwise Sets New Precedent as First U.S. Bitcoin ETF to Reveal BTC Addresses

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Trent Alan

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Trent Alan

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Trent has a background and education in journalism and communications, with two decades of experience editing and writing on a diverse array of topics. In recent years, however, he has shifted his...

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January 23, 2024

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On January 24, Bitwise Asset Management took a major step toward transparency by releasing the Bitcoin wallet addresses linked to its Bitcoin exchange-traded fund. This voluntary disclosure gives direct access to view assets on the blockchain, a first for a U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF provider.

“Onchain transparency is core to Bitcoin’s ethos. We’re proud to walk the walk,” Bitwise said.

The move highlights Bitwise’s commitment to accountability and trust. Publishing addresses enables investors and regulators to independently verify holdings and flows.

Bitwise Leads Charge for Bitcoin ETF Transparency

“As infrastructure evolves, we hope to do more, like work with firms to enable real-time cryptographic attestations,” Bitwise stated.

Publishing on-chain addresses is a first step toward increasing public transparency. As infrastructure evolves, we hope to do more, such as working with firms like @hosekiapp to provide real-time cryptographic attestations.

— Bitwise (@BitwiseInvest) January 24, 2024

The principles guiding this transparency reflect growing calls for openness in crypto finance.

Earlier this month, following long anticipation, the SEC approved U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs. Bitwise rapidly advanced transparency for these new vehicles. The ETFs have already seen billions in demand, becoming the second largest ETF commodity.

Bitwise Distinguishes Itself Among ETF Providers

By spearheading address disclosure, Bitwise distinguishes itself among competitors in the Bitcoin ETF market. Peers may feel compelled to follow this example.

Bitwise’s move even sparked calls for Gold ETF transparency as well.

“This is now the absolute most transparent investment product in the US. I wish we could have a live view into the gold ETF vaults at all times,” reinsurance broker Jeff Punter tweeted. “Do gold ETFs plan on this level of transparency any time soon?”

For an asset class known for anonymity, the address reveal could be impactful. Bitwise set new openness precedents for not just U.S. Bitcoin ETFs, but all investment products. Following Bitwise’s move, voluntary transparency could become standard industry practice. For now, Bitwise’s address disclosure is seen as a defining leap forward.