Crypto ETF fans, get excited 2025 is looking like a breakout year for exchange-traded funds linked to digital assets. The world of crypto ETFs is growing far beyond just Bitcoin and Ethereum, which have already attracted billions from big investors. These funds are changing how people invest in crypto. Imagine having a portfolio that includes Solana’s fast transaction speeds, XRP’s ability to handle cross-border payments, or even popular meme coins, all without the hassle and risk of managing your own crypto wallets. That’s the advantage of the crypto ETFs. Many ETFs focusing on various altcoins and thematic investments are being filed, offering new ways to diversify and benefit from the growing digital economy.
With the total crypto market cap now over $4 trillion, these ETFs are more than just another investment option, they’re a smarter way to gain exposure to crypto that could improve your returns as the market continues to grow.
Spotlight on Thematic Crypto ETFs
Diving into the crypto ETF, two thematic heavyweights stand out for giving investors broad exposure to blockchain innovation without the direct volatility of cryptocurrencies themselves.
Amplify Transformational Data Sharing ETF (BLOK), managed by Amplify ETFs, focuses on companies pioneering blockchain-driven data sharing. It holds over 50 stocks, featuring major players like MicroStrategy, Coinbase Global, and Galaxy Digital. With assets under management topping $1.2 billion and a 0.76% expense ratio, BLOK is ideal for those betting on the blockchain infrastructure layer. It delivers returns tied to firms innovating in DeFi, NFTs, and beyond, offering a smoother ride than owning tokens outright.
Then there’s the Bitwise Crypto Industry Innovators ETF (BITQ) from Bitwise Asset Management, which zeroes in on pure-play crypto companies miners, exchanges, and service providers like Riot Platforms and CleanSpark. With $250 million AUM and a 0.85% fee, BITQ has seen a 150% surge in inflows this year, reflecting growing demand for companies reshaping the crypto ecosystem from within. Together, these ETFs offer a smart way to ride blockchain’s wave through established equities, blending growth potential with a touch less volatility.
No crypto ETF list is complete without Schwab’s Crypto Thematic ETF (STCE). Managed by Charles Schwab, STCE handpicks stocks from companies driving blockchain adoption across various sectors. Its top names include PayPal, Block (formerly Square), and NVIDIA mixing fintech innovators with AI-powered crypto tech. With a low 0.30% expense ratio and about $150 million in assets under management (AUM), it’s a solid choice for investors who want cost-effective, thematic diversification in the crypto space.
Next up is Global X Blockchain & Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITS), from Global X ETFs. BITS offers a hybrid approach, combining blockchain-related equities with Bitcoin futures for a balanced exposure to both stocks and crypto derivatives. The fund manages roughly $100 million, charges a 0.65% fee, and features companies like Marathon Digital and Hut 8, mining heavyweights positioned at the crossroads of traditional markets and crypto futures.
Rounding out the list is the First Trust SkyBridge Crypto Industry & Digital Economy ETF (CRPT), managed by First Trust. CRPT zooms in on disruptors reshaping the digital economy, with holdings such as Coinbase and MicroStrategy. With $80 million AUM and a 0.85% expense ratio, CRPT has been a top performer lately, especially as altcoins rotate in and out of favor, making it a go-to for those chasing digital innovation within equities.
Altcoin Spot ETFs—The New Wave in the Crypto ETF Landscape
2025 has been a breakout year for altcoin spot ETFs, with the SEC easing the way for direct token exposure beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. Here’s a quick rundown of the front-runners making waves this year:
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VanEck Solana Trust ETF (VSOL): Launched in March, this fund holds actual SOL tokens, tracking the fast and scalable Solana blockchain. With $500 million in assets and a low 0.25% fee, VSOL has attracted billions in inflows, riding Solana’s stronghold in the DeFi space.
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Bitwise XRP ETF (BITX): Approved in May following Ripple’s legal clarity, BITX offers direct exposure to XRP, managing $300 million with a 0.28% expense ratio. It taps into XRP’s promise in cross-border payments and financial institutions.
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Grayscale Cardano Trust ETF (GCAD): Uplisted to spot ETF status in June, GCAD highlights Cardano’s eco-friendly staking mechanism. It commands $200 million in assets under management and charges a 0.35% fee, appealing to investors focused on sustainability.
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Franklin Templeton Avalanche ETF (AVAX): Approved in April, AVAX mirrors the Avalanche blockchain’s performance, known for its speedy and scalable infrastructure. Managing $150 million at a 0.30% fee, it caters to investors chasing high-throughput networks.
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21Shares Litecoin ETF (LTCU): Debuted in February, LTCU positions Litecoin as “digital silver,” providing spot exposure to LTC with $100 million AUM and a competitive 0.25% fee ideal for those wanting a classic crypto hedge.
Together, these altcoin spot ETFs diversify your crypto exposure beyond the usual giants, offering direct access to tokens fueling the next-gen blockchain economy.