TLDR
- BlackRock’s IBIT in the US now holds over $98 billion in assets.
- Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $126,223 in 2025.
- Harvard invested $100 million in BlackRock’s US Bitcoin ETF.
- Australia joins US, Germany, and Switzerland in hosting Bitcoin ETFs.
BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager with over $13 trillion in assets, is bringing a Bitcoin ETF to Australia. Following strong demand in global markets and the rapid adoption of digital assets, the fund will offer investors in Australia direct access to Bitcoin exposure without needing to own the cryptocurrency itself.
BlackRock Expands Global Bitcoin Strategy with Australian ETF
BlackRock has confirmed the launch of a spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). This move follows the success of its U.S.-based iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), which has amassed more than $98 billion in assets under management since its debut two years ago.
The new ETF allows Australian investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin through a secure and regulated vehicle. BlackRock will use its global systems to track the spot price of Bitcoin, providing a liquid option for investors without direct ownership of the asset.
Steve Ead, Head of Global Product Solutions at BlackRock Australasia, stated, “This product gives Australians a transparent and simple path to Bitcoin exposure under a regulated framework.”
The launch marks another step in BlackRock’s digital asset strategy, which aims to integrate crypto into traditional investment portfolios. BlackRock continues to push into digital finance after the success of its products in the U.S. and Europe.
Australia Joins Global Network of Bitcoin ETF Markets
The Australian launch puts the country in a small group of regions where Bitcoin ETFs are approved and active, including the United States, Germany, and Switzerland. The approval reflects growing interest from institutional investors in the Asia-Pacific region.
Increased institutional demand for Bitcoin has accelerated in 2025. Earlier this year, the Harvard endowment fund invested over $100 million into the U.S.-listed IBIT. Analysts from Deutsche Bank have suggested that by 2030, central banks may begin adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets.
By entering the Australian market, BlackRock seeks to meet the rising demand from both retail and institutional investors. This ETF is likely to enhance liquidity and provide a structured access point for individuals interested in Bitcoin.
Australia Positioned as Key Crypto Market in Asia-Pacific
Australia’s clear regulatory environment and robust financial infrastructure make it an ideal location for the ETF launch. BlackRock’s decision to enter this market indicates growing confidence in the region’s role in the digital asset sector.
The country has witnessed increasing activity from financial institutions expanding into cryptocurrency services. The ETF launch could further enhance Australia’s standing as a central hub for digital financial products in the Asia-Pacific region.
BlackRock’s presence may also prompt other global asset managers to explore crypto-related offerings in Australia. This could boost competition and accelerate access to regulated Bitcoin investment options for regional investors.
Bitcoin ETF Launch Comes as Price Reaches Record High
The announcement follows Bitcoin’s recent price milestone, where it reached an all-time high of $126,223. This record was driven by inflows into global Bitcoin ETFs and heightened demand from institutional buyers.
With Bitcoin now regarded by many investors as a macro hedge asset, akin to gold, demand for regulated exposure tools has surged. BlackRock’s ETF provides a way for investors to engage with Bitcoin without needing to manage wallets, keys, or direct storage concerns.
This launch signifies a broader shift in Bitcoin’s status in global markets, where it is increasingly recognized as a strategic portfolio asset rather than merely a speculative investment.
