IBIT or ETHV? How Two Single-Asset Crypto ETFs Compare on Size, Risk, and Returns

Core Insights - The iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) has a significantly larger asset base, stronger recent returns, and lower historical drawdown compared to the VanEck Ethereum ETF (ETHV) [2][9] - Both ETFs provide direct exposure to either bitcoin or ether, catering to different risk appetites and investment outlooks [3] Snapshot (Cost & Size) - IBIT has an asset under management (AUM) of $67.8 billion, while ETHV has an AUM of $180.5 million - The expense ratio for ETHV is 0.20%, slightly lower than IBIT's 0.25% - The one-year return for IBIT is 55.4%, compared to ETHV's 53% [4] Performance & Risk Comparison - IBIT has a maximum drawdown of 28%, while ETHV has a maximum drawdown of 64% - Since inception, a $1,000 investment in IBIT would have grown to $1,835, whereas the same investment in ETHV would have grown to $830 [5] Fund Composition - IBIT is a pure-play bitcoin vehicle, holding nearly 100% of its assets in bitcoin with negligible cash [6] - ETHV invests effectively 100% of its assets in ether, focusing on its unique attributes and risk profile [7] Investment Considerations - IBIT is positioned as a more established asset with lower volatility, while ETHV is seen as a higher-beta investment tied to Ethereum's network activity [10] - IBIT's size and liquidity make it attractive for investors prioritizing cleaner price tracking [11] - ETHV offers pure ether exposure, which is historically more volatile but aligned with Ethereum's evolving utility [12]