VanEck has introduced a new exchange-traded fund (ETF) designed to provide investors access to the expanding digital asset economy without requiring them to directly hold cryptocurrencies.

VanEck Onchain Economy ETF: A New Approach

Launched under the ticker NODE, the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF offers exposure to companies driving digital transformation and utilizing blockchain technology. This actively managed fund targets public companies involved in the blockchain space, including crypto miners, exchanges, data centers, energy providers, and fintech firms leveraging crypto-related technologies.

The fund will consist of 30 to 60 companies selected from a larger pool of over 130. The portfolio is adjusted periodically based on market trends and each company’s connection to Bitcoin. While NODE does not directly hold cryptocurrencies, it can allocate up to 25% of its assets to crypto-linked exchange-traded products, such as Bitcoin ETFs.

Compliance and Investment Strategy

To ensure compliance with U.S. tax regulations, the fund will invest in cryptocurrency-related products, such as swaps and futures, through a Cayman Islands subsidiary. This approach allows NODE to gain indirect exposure to crypto assets while adhering to regulatory requirements. However, it is important to note that the fund will not invest in stablecoins, and the subsidiary’s exposure is capped at 25% of assets each quarter.

Why NODE Stands Out

Matthew Sigel, VanEck’s Head of Digital Assets Research, emphasized that NODE is designed to offer diversification and liquidity while serving as a lower-volatility alternative to direct cryptocurrency investments. According to Sigel:

β€œCategorizing assets by their bitcoin sensitivity lets us fine-tune the portfolio across market cycles.”

With a management fee of 0.69%, NODE complements VanEck’s existing lineup of crypto-focused products, including its passively managed Digital Transformation ETF. This launch aligns with increasing institutional interest in blockchain infrastructure and the growing availability of investment products tailored to the evolving on-chain economy.

VanEck’s Expansion in Crypto Investments

VanEck has also filed for ETFs tied to specific digital assets, such as Avalanche and Binance Coin. These filings reflect the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in the crypto investment space and catering to the demands of investors seeking innovative financial products related to blockchain technology.