What is ETF (Exchange Traded Funds)?

Preface

In the Web3 world, the form and trading methods of assets are rapidly evolving, and ETFs (Exchange Traded Fund, index stock funds) as important investment tools in traditional financial markets are gradually integrating with blockchain technology, ushering in a new chapter of asset tokenization.

What is ETF?

ETF is a fund listed on an exchange that aims to track the performance of a specific index, commodity, or asset portfolio. It combines the trading convenience of stocks with the diversification features of funds, allowing investors to participate in diversified investment portfolios at a lower cost. The following are the main characteristics of ETFs:

• Diversification: By holding a variety of assets, the risk of volatility from a single asset is reduced.
• High transparency: ETF publishes its holdings daily, allowing investors to clearly understand the investment portfolio.
• Flexible trading: like stocks, can be bought and sold instantly during trading hours.
• Lower cost: Compared to actively managed funds, the management fees of ETFs are usually lower.

Types of ETFs

1. Stock ETF: Tracks specific stock indices, for example: the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY) in the United States.
2. Bond ETF: Invest in government or corporate bonds, providing a stable source of income.
3. Commodity ETFs: track the prices of commodities such as gold, crude oil, etc., allowing investors to indirectly participate in the commodity market.
4. Leveraged and Inverse ETFs: Amplify returns or profit from market declines through financial derivatives, suitable for short-term trading.

The Rise of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency ETFs

With the development of blockchain technology, traditional financial instruments are beginning to merge with crypto assets, giving rise to crypto ETFs, providing investors with new investment channels.

1. Spot cryptocurrency ETF
   Directly holding cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH), to track their spot prices. Since 2025, several countries have started to approve Bitcoin spot ETFs, marking an increase in mainstream financial acceptance of crypto assets.

2. Cryptocurrency Futures ETF
   By investing in cryptocurrency through futures contracts, one can indirectly participate in their price fluctuations. For example, CME (Chicago Mercantile Exchange) has introduced futures ETFs for Bitcoin and Ethereum, allowing institutional investors to participate in the crypto market more safely.

3. Operation mode of on-chain ETF
   On-chain ETF combines the characteristics of smart contracts and decentralized finance (DeFi) to provide higher transparency and automation. Smart contracts can automate dividend distribution, liquidation, and asset restructuring, reducing operational risks.

Advantage

• High transparency: Through on-chain data disclosure, the changes in ETF assets can be tracked in real time.
• Decentralization: All operations are completed by smart contracts without the need for intermediaries.
• Global trading: 24/7 trading, unrestricted by region.

The Future Outlook of Blockchain ETF

The future of blockchain ETFs will continue to grow, especially in the areas of asset tokenization and cross-chain transactions. Through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), investors will be able to participate in the governance and decision-making of ETFs, further enhancing community participation. In addition, more traditional financial institutions are gradually entering this field, with large institutions such as BlackRock and Fidelity already launching related products, signaling that blockchain ETFs are gradually moving towards the mainstream market.

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Summary

ETF, as a core product of traditional finance, is moving towards a new era of decentralized and globalized trading with the blessing of blockchain technology. With the emergence of more blockchain ETFs, investors will be able to participate in the global market with lower costs and higher transparency, achieving true financial freedom without borders.