FBTC vs. NCIQ: The Big Bitcoin ETFs That Share Many Similarities

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses two ETFs, the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index U.S. ETF (NCIQ) and the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), which provide indirect exposure to cryptocurrencies for investors who prefer not to purchase digital tokens directly [1] Group 1: Snapshot (Cost & Size) - Both NCIQ and FBTC have an expense ratio of 0.25%, making them equally affordable in terms of cost [2] - As of February 7, 2026, NCIQ has a one-year return of -32.66%, while FBTC has a return of -28.30% [2] - NCIQ has assets under management (AUM) of $155.3 million, whereas FBTC has a significantly larger AUM of $14.03 billion [2] Group 2: Performance & Risk Comparison - The maximum drawdown over one year for NCIQ is -36.10%, compared to -33.28% for FBTC [3] - A $1,000 investment would have grown to $869 in NCIQ and $796 in FBTC over the past year [3] Group 3: What's Inside - FBTC, launched less than two years ago, focuses solely on Bitcoin, which constitutes 1.64% of its holdings [4] - NCIQ, on the market for nearly a year less than FBTC, aims to represent a broader crypto market, with Bitcoin making up 77% of its holdings, alongside other tokens like Ethereum (ETH), XRP, and Solana [4] Group 4: Implications for Investors - The article highlights the volatility of the crypto market, which can lead to rapid price movements affecting both ETFs [6] - It also notes the risks associated with the unregulated cryptocurrency market, including potential price manipulation by large holders of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies [7] - Despite the current downturn in the crypto market, these ETFs may be suitable for investors who remain optimistic about Bitcoin and the overall market in the long term [8]