Posted on May 31, 2025
The cryptocurrency market has been a rollercoaster in 2025, with a recent 10%+ crash triggered by China’s aggressive regulatory moves against crypto trading and mining. Despite this volatility, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain a popular way for investors to gain exposure to digital assets without the hassle of managing wallets or navigating risky exchanges. ETFs offer a regulated, straightforward path to crypto investing, but with thousands of funds and a shaky market, which ones should you consider? Here’s a curated list of the 7 best cryptocurrency ETFs to buy right now, balancing performance, fees, and resilience in today’s turbulent environment.
1. iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: BlackRock’s IBIT has solidified its position as a titan in the crypto ETF space. As of March 2025, it reached $50 billion in assets under management (AUM), making it one of the most successful ETF launches ever. Even after the recent market dip, IBIT’s scale and liquidity make it a safer bet for Bitcoin exposure.
- Key Features: 100% invested in Bitcoin, low expense ratio of 0.25%, and BlackRock’s institutional credibility.
- Why Now: Despite Bitcoin dropping below $58,000 in the recent crash, IBIT’s inclusion in BlackRock’s model portfolios signals growing mainstream acceptance, which could drive recovery.
2. iShares Ethereum Trust ETF (ETHA)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Launched in 2024 after SEC approval, this ETF quickly became the largest Ethereum fund by AUM. It’s a go-to for investors seeking exposure to the second-largest cryptocurrency.
- Key Features: 100% invested in Ethereum, a discounted expense ratio of 0.12% (until $2.5 billion AUM, then 0.25%), and strong liquidity.
- Why Now: Ethereum’s price took a hit in the crash, but its role in decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contracts makes it a long-term contender. The lower fees make ETHA attractive during this dip.
3. Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: One of the 11 Bitcoin ETFs launched in January 2024, Fidelity’s fund stands out for its robust custody solutions and competitive fees.
- Key Features: Direct Bitcoin exposure, 0.25% expense ratio, and Fidelity’s in-house cold storage for security.
- Why Now: Fidelity’s reputation as a trusted broker adds a layer of confidence for investors rattled by the market crash. FBTC’s structure ensures minimal tracking error, even in volatile times.
4. Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: A veteran in the crypto ETF space, GBTC transitioned from a trust to an ETF in 2024. It remains the largest Bitcoin ETF, with over 10 times the AUM of its closest competitor.
- Key Features: 100% Bitcoin exposure, but a higher expense ratio of 1.5%.
- Why Now: GBTC’s high fees are a drawback, but its liquidity and long track record make it a stable choice. However, be cautious—some investors have shifted to cheaper alternatives like IBIT since the crash.
5. Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Unlike pure-play crypto ETFs, BLOK invests in companies involved in blockchain technology, offering a less volatile way to gain crypto exposure.
- Key Features: Diversified holdings in firms like MicroStrategy and CleanSpark, with a 0.71% expense ratio.
- Why Now: The recent crash hit direct crypto ETFs harder than blockchain-focused funds. BLOK’s diversified approach provides a buffer against further downturns while still capturing blockchain growth.
6. Schwab Crypto Thematic ETF (STCE)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: This ETF targets companies benefiting from crypto and blockchain adoption, offering a broader investment lens.
- Key Features: Holds over 40 stocks, including Bitdeer Technologies, with a low 0.30% expense ratio.
- Why Now: STCE’s focus on crypto-related companies rather than direct crypto holdings makes it less susceptible to market swings, appealing to risk-averse investors post-crash.
7. Roundhill Bitcoin Covered Call Strategy ETF (YBTC)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: YBTC offers a unique blend of Bitcoin exposure and income generation through a covered call strategy, ideal for investors seeking yield in a bearish market.
- Key Features: Provides upside Bitcoin exposure with a cap, generates income via options, and has a 0.95% expense ratio.
- Why Now: With the market down, YBTC’s income-generating strategy can help offset losses, making it a strategic pick for navigating the current uncertainty.
Critical Considerations
The narrative around crypto ETFs often paints them as a safe haven compared to direct crypto ownership, but let’s challenge that. While ETFs eliminate self-custody risks, they come with their own pitfalls—management fees, tracking errors, and limited trading hours (unlike crypto’s 24/7 market). The recent China-induced crash also highlights the crypto market’s vulnerability to regulatory shocks, which ETFs can’t fully shield you from. Moreover, high-fee funds like GBTC may erode returns over time, especially if the market remains bearish.
Tips for Investors
- Diversify Across Types: Mix direct crypto ETFs (like IBIT and ETHA) with blockchain-focused funds (like BLOK and STCE) to balance risk.
- Watch Fees Closely: Opt for low-cost options like STCE or ETHA, especially if you’re holding long-term.
- Stay Informed: Regulatory shifts, like China’s crackdown or potential U.S. policy changes under a pro-crypto administration, can sway the market. Keep an eye on global news.
- Think Long-Term: Crypto ETFs are volatile. The recent 10% drop is steep, but historical trends show recoveries—don’t panic-sell.
Final Thoughts
Crypto ETFs remain a compelling option for investors seeking exposure to digital assets, even amidst the current market turmoil. Funds like IBIT and ETHA offer direct access to Bitcoin and Ethereum at low costs, while diversified ETFs like BLOK and STCE provide a safer entry point. However, the market’s reaction to China’s decision underscores the risks of crypto investing—ETFs or not. Choose wisely, diversify, and brace for more volatility as the regulatory landscape evolves.
Which ETF are you considering? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more market updates!