21Shares, the largest issuer of crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) globally, has made a bold move into the UK financial market. Today, the company announced the listing of four new physically backed crypto-asset exchange traded notes (ETNs) on the London Stock Exchange. These ETNs have been specifically designed for professional investors, marking a significant expansion of 21Shares’ presence and introducing its innovative investment products to one of the world’s most prominent financial hubs.
This introduction of ETNs in the UK by 21Shares comes at a time when the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has updated its regulatory framework to allow professional investors to access ETNs backed by Bitcoin and Ethereum. The dual listing in both GBP and USD formats aims to provide versatile investment options within the evolving crypto regulatory landscape in the UK, representing a crucial step in 21Shares’ mission to bridge traditional finance with the crypto economy.
The launch of these new ETNs in the UK is not just a market entry, but part of 21Shares’ ongoing global expansion. Since its establishment in 2018, 21Shares has been a pioneer in the crypto investment space, being the first to introduce a physically-backed crypto ETN. The company is already listed on major exchanges worldwide, including Nasdaq OMX, Euronext, Deutsche Börse Xetra, and SIX Swiss Exchange, catering to the increasing demand for digital assets among investors.
Ophelia Snyder, co-founder of 21Shares, emphasized the strategic importance of the UK market, highlighting its depth and liquidity as attractive factors for institutional investors interested in cryptocurrencies. London’s robust capital markets provide an ideal environment for offering well-structured, regulated funds that offer secure access to the growing crypto market. With over 40 ETNs listed across 11 different stock exchanges, 21Shares aims to be a leader in providing innovative financial products in stable and regulated environments.
Hany Rashwan, co-founder of 21Shares, expressed optimism about the future of cryptocurrencies and their role in a decentralized global financial system. He noted the increasing recognition of crypto’s potential among institutional investors, which is driving the demand for diversified crypto investment products. Rashwan also emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the sector’s growth by meeting this growing demand and adapting to the evolving regulatory landscape.
21Shares offers a wide range of cryptocurrency ETNs, including diversified index ETNs and staking ETNs that generate returns through staking. The company also provides inverse ETNs designed to profit from declines in cryptocurrency prices. This diverse suite of products is part of 21Shares’ strategy to make cryptocurrency investment accessible through traditional financial systems and support investors in navigating the complex yet potentially rewarding landscape of digital assets.
As 21Shares expands its offerings in the UK, the focus remains on enhancing product accessibility and ensuring compliance with local regulations. The company aims to pave the way for more secure and transparent cryptocurrency investment avenues, providing investors with confidence in this emerging asset class.
