Latest investment decisions by key players in Hong Kong and Wisconsin reveal a contrasting strategy about BlackRock Bitcoin ETFs, reflecting perceptions of the role of cryptocurrencies in institutional portfolios.
BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) investment landscape recently demonstrated a stark difference between Hong Kong and Wisconsin, highlighting the diversified approach that institutional investors take to Bitcoin. These moves provide insight into the broader trends shaping crypto ETF adoption.
learn more: How and Where to Buy Bitcoin ETFs: A Comprehensive Guide
Hong Kong’s bold embrace of BlackRock Bitcoin ETF
Hong Kong-based Avenir has greatly upgraded its investment in BlackRock Bitcoin ETFs, accumulating 14.7 million shares worth $688 million by March 31, 2025. It grew by 30% in the first quarter alone, such as Decrypted report.
Avenir’s strategy is part of a larger plan that launched a $500 million crypto partnership program in fall 2024 to work with global digital asset-focused quantitative trading teams. This positive accumulation reflects a firm belief in Bitcoin’s long-term potential.
The company’s decision coincides with interest in spot Bitcoin ETFs, and the company’s inflows are still hitting record levels despite temporary declines in the spring of 2025. IBIT trades at $59.20, indicating strong interests in investors.
Source: Yahoo Finance
Avenir’s move shows a broader trend in the Asian market where Bitcoin ETFs are increasingly seen as a viable way to acquire Bitcoin BTC There is no complexity of direct ownership.
Read more: Bitcoin ETFs reach all-time highs, with inflows of more than $41 billion
Wisconsin uninstalls BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF
By contrast, the Wisconsin Investment Commission (SWIB) chose to reduce its exposure to Blackrock Bitcoin ETFs, offloading stocks worth more than $300 million.
The decision marks a significant shrinkage of Swib’s cryptocurrency holders, which previously included Blackrock and Grayscale Bitcoin ETFs worth $163 million by the end of 2024.
Swib’s exit from IBIT shows that its portfolio has been reassessed, which may be affected by market volatility and strategic shift toward more stable asset classes. Swib’s role in managing pension funds and other trusts for Wisconsin citizens highlights a cautious approach to high-risk investments such as Bitcoin.
This move is in sharp contrast to Hong Kong’s aggressive stance, which illustrates the risk appetite of institutional investors.
