BlackRock Launches Bitcoin ETP in London, Opening Crypto Access for UK Retail Investors

HKAN | Oct 22

In a key development for the digital-assets market, BlackRock has introduced its iShares Bitcoin exchange-traded product (ETP) on the London Stock Exchange, enabling UK retail investors — for the first time under this product structure — to gain exposure to Bitcoin via traditional investment channels.

Key Highlights

• The product, listed under the ticker IB1T, is physically backed by actual Bitcoin held in custody, allowing investors to participate in Bitcoin’s price movements without directly holding the underlying asset.

• The launch follows the UK regulator’s decision to lift a previous ban on retail access to crypto-linked investment vehicles, paving the way for regulated ETPs aimed at non-professional investors.

• BlackRock has leveraged its global asset-management infrastructure and custody partnerships (including with Coinbase) to back the product with institutional-grade security and compliance.

Why This Matters

• Bridges traditional finance and crypto: By offering Bitcoin exposure through a familiar investment vehicle listed on the LSE, BlackRock is helping bring digital assets into mainstream portfolios in the UK — reducing the friction and complexity of direct crypto custody.

• Retail democratization: Prior to this, many Bitcoin-linked ETPs were only accessible to institutional or professional investors; this listing opens the door for general retail participation in a regulated environment.

• Regulatory confidence: The timing underscores the UK’s evolving framework for crypto investments. With the ban on certain crypto investment products lifted, the environment is becoming more open to regulated crypto exposures.

• Signal to markets: As the world’s largest asset manager moves to expand its crypto product reach, it sends a strong signal that digital assets are increasingly viewed as a legitimate part of global investment strategy.

What to Watch Next

• The uptake of the iShares Bitcoin ETP by UK advisers and retail investors — trading volumes and asset flows will indicate how big the demand will be.

• Market-impact considerations: Whether this new accessible vehicle will influence broader Bitcoin flows, liquidity and supply dynamics.

• Fee and structure evolution: Initial management fee (TER) structures and how they compare with rival crypto ETPs and traditional funds.

• Further geographic expansion: Whether BlackRock will roll out similar retail-accessible crypto products in other jurisdictions beyond the UK.