Crypto ETFs are rapidly gaining popularity in 2025 as a simple, regulated way to gain exposure to digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum—without needing a crypto wallet. If you're an investor using platforms like Fidelity, Schwab, or others, you can easily buy these ETFs right from your existing brokerage account.
This guide explains how to buy crypto ETFs step by step, compares top brokerages, and highlights key ETFs to consider.
What Are Crypto ETFs?
A cryptocurrency ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) is a publicly traded investment vehicle that tracks the price of a cryptocurrency or a basket of digital assets. Unlike buying Bitcoin or Ethereum directly, ETFs allow you to invest in crypto through traditional stock market infrastructure.
There are two main types of crypto ETFs:
- Spot Crypto ETFs: These hold the actual cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, in custody and track its real-time price.
- Futures Crypto ETFs: These invest in futures contracts tied to the price of the cryptocurrency, rather than holding the asset itself.
As of 2025, multiple spot Bitcoin ETFs have been approved by the SEC, making crypto ETFs more accessible than ever.
Which Brokerages Offer Crypto ETFs?
Most of the major U.S. brokerages now offer access to spot and/or futures-based crypto ETFs. Here’s how they compare:
| Brokerage | Spot Crypto ETFs | Futures Crypto ETFs | Commission | Minimum Investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fidelity | Yes | Yes | $0 | $1 |
| Charles Schwab | Yes | Yes | $0 | $1 |
| E*TRADE | Yes | Yes | $0 | $0–$10 |
| Robinhood | Yes | No | $0 | $1 |
| Vanguard | No | Yes | $0 | $1 |
| Webull | Yes | Yes | $0 | $1 |
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Crypto ETFs
Buying a crypto ETF works much like buying a traditional ETF or stock. Below is a simple step-by-step walkthrough, applicable across most platforms including Fidelity and Schwab.
1. Open a Brokerage Account
If you don’t already have an account, go to the brokerage's official website and follow the registration process. You’ll need to provide your personal information and verify your identity.
Examples:
- Fidelity: fidelity.com
- Schwab: schwab.com
2. Fund Your Account
Transfer money from your bank account using ACH, wire, or mobile deposit. Most platforms have no minimum funding requirement beyond the cost of the investment.
3. Search for a Crypto ETF
Use the brokerage’s search bar to find available crypto ETFs. You can search by ETF name or ticker symbol. Some popular crypto ETFs include:
| ETF Ticker | Name | Type | Issuer |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBIT | iShares Bitcoin Trust | Spot | BlackRock |
| FBTC | Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund | Spot | Fidelity |
| BITO | ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF | Futures | ProShares |
| ARKB | ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF | Spot | ARK Invest |
| BTOP | Bitwise Bitcoin ETF | Spot | Bitwise |
4. Review ETF Details
Before purchasing, click on the ETF to view its:
- Asset type (spot or futures)
- Holdings and allocation
- Expense ratio
- Historical performance
- Liquidity and volume
Look for low-fee funds with strong performance and reputable issuers.
5. Place a Trade
- Select the ETF
- Choose how many shares you want to buy or enter a dollar amount
- Choose your order type (market or limit)
- Review and confirm the order
Once the trade is executed, the ETF will appear in your portfolio.
6. Monitor Your Investment
You can track performance and adjust your position directly from your brokerage dashboard. Some platforms allow automated reinvestments or recurring buys.
Example: Buying IBIT on Fidelity
- Log into your Fidelity account
- Click “Trade” and select “ETFs”
- Search for “IBIT” (iShares Bitcoin Trust)
- Select the ETF and click “Buy”
- Enter the number of shares or investment amount
- Choose a market or limit order and submit
You now own a spot Bitcoin ETF in your Fidelity account.
Spot vs Futures Crypto ETFs
Understanding the difference between spot and futures ETFs is important when choosing where to invest.
| Feature | Spot ETFs | Futures ETFs |
|---|---|---|
| Asset Held | Actual cryptocurrency | Derivative contracts |
| Tracking Accuracy | Higher | Lower due to roll costs |
| Volatility | Moderate to high | High |
| Fees | Lower on average | Typically higher |
| Best For | Long-term investing | Short-term exposure |
Spot ETFs are generally preferred by long-term investors, while futures ETFs may suit those seeking short-term exposure or trading opportunities.
Performance Snapshot (Year-to-Date, Mid-2025)
| ETF Ticker | YTD Performance | Type |
|---|---|---|
| IBIT | +42.3% | Spot |
| FBTC | +40.1% | Spot |
| BITO | +31.8% | Futures |
| ARKB | +43.5% | Spot |
Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on market volatility.
Expert Considerations Before You Buy
- Expense ratios: Look for ETFs with fees under 0.30% for cost efficiency.
- Tax implications: Spot ETFs generally generate 1099 forms, while futures ETFs may issue K-1s.
- Diversification: Avoid putting all your crypto exposure into a single ETF or asset.
- Risk tolerance: Crypto remains volatile even when held through ETFs.
According to Emily Tran, CFA and ETF Strategist at DigitalWealth Advisors:
“Crypto ETFs allow traditional investors to participate in a growing asset class without the complexity of direct crypto ownership.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy crypto ETFs in a retirement account?
Yes. Most brokerages allow crypto ETFs inside IRAs and Roth IRAs.
Are crypto ETFs safe?
They are safer than directly holding cryptocurrency because they’re SEC-regulated and held within insured brokerage accounts. However, the asset class is still volatile.
Do I need a crypto wallet?
No. You don’t need a crypto wallet to invest in crypto ETFs.
Are there Ethereum ETFs available?
Spot Ethereum ETFs are expected in late 2025, depending on regulatory approval. Several futures-based Ethereum ETFs are already available.
Final Thoughts
Buying crypto ETFs through major brokerages like Fidelity and Schwab offers a simple and low-cost entry point into the world of digital assets. For long-term investors, spot ETFs provide clean exposure to Bitcoin, while futures ETFs allow for tactical short-term plays. As with any investment, consider your risk profile, diversification strategy, and long-term goals before investing in crypto ETFs.
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