Crypto Mining ETFs: Digging Deep

Core Insights - The launch of spot bitcoin ETFs has shifted focus away from crypto equity ETFs, but the latter still present a viable investment case, particularly in crypto mining [1][2] - Crypto mining equities provide an alternative investment route to express a bitcoin view without direct ownership, similar to gold mining equities [2][5] - Investors in mining companies must conduct due diligence on various business aspects, including electricity contracts and management discipline, which offers more concrete metrics compared to direct bitcoin ownership [3][4] Investment Characteristics - Mining stocks can exhibit higher volatility than bitcoin itself and are sensitive to electricity prices and capital requirements [4][6] - Mining revenue is more directly correlated with bitcoin prices, making it a more focused investment compared to broader blockchain themes [5][6] - Public miners are primarily classified within the technology sector, while broader blockchain investments may have exposure to financials and other sectors [6] Intersection with AI - Crypto miners are increasingly leveraging their resources for AI and high-performance computing, creating new revenue streams and enhancing cash flow opportunities [7] ETF Strategies - There are two main crypto mining ETFs: the CoinShares Bitcoin Mining ETF (WGMI) and the Grayscale Bitcoin Miners ETF (MNRS), each with distinct management strategies [8][9] - WGMI is actively managed with a focus on companies deriving significant revenue from bitcoin mining, while MNRS is passively managed and tracks a specific index [9][11] - WGMI has shown strong performance, up 68% year-to-date, while MNRS has a smaller asset base of around $7 million [10][11] Market Dynamics - Other crypto mining ETFs have closed in 2023, indicating a competitive and evolving market landscape [14] - Broader blockchain ETFs also provide significant exposure to mining companies, allowing for diversification while maintaining a focus on miners [15][16] Conclusion - Crypto mining equities offer a measurable way to express a bitcoin view within traditional portfolios, with miner-focused ETFs like WGMI and MNRS providing distinct investment options [17]