GET EXPOSURE TO CRYPTO-ASSETS

We've all heard about Bitcoin. But what exactly is Bitcoin?

 

Let's start at the beginning. Around 100,000 years ago.

 

Throughout history, we've used all kinds of objects to help make transactions and store value, from seashells to shiny metals to paper notes. That's because the value isn't just in the object itself, it's in how much we agree the object represents. So, the object can be many things, even, as it turns out, a string of digital code.

 

The internet changed everything. It connected the world, changing how we communicate, work, shop and manage finances. It also opened the door to a new kind of currency and asset. Enter Bitcoin, a digital currency not governed by banks or governments, but by its global community of users. And that provided new potential benefits.

 

Bitcoin exchanges happen person-to-person, anywhere in the world, in near real time and for near zero transaction costs. Saving money, time and opening financial opportunity to those without access to a banking system.

 

Bitcoin has a fixed supply of 21 million bitcoins. This hard coded rule controls supply, purchasing power and helps avoid the potential misuse of printing more and more currency, which can contribute towards inflation.

 

All transactions take place on a digital ledger called the blockchain. It's a digital platform to move value, where everyone can see every transaction.

 

Bitcoin is no longer seen as the radical idea it was 15 years ago. Over 500 million people around the world now use cryptocurrency, with over 50% holding or investing in Bitcoin, making it the most popular cryptocurrency by far. Some use Bitcoin to transfer value across borders and for purchases. Some see Bitcoin as an investment given its limited supply and uniqueness relative to other financial assets. And for those in certain countries, its value goes far deeper, potentially offering greater financial autonomy by serving as an alternative to local currencies.

 

Bitcoin is an emerging global monetary alternative. Time will tell how far adoption will go, but next time you see a seashell or shiny metal, think about how humans’ idea of 'money' has evolved throughout history.

 

To learn more about bitcoin as part of a portfolio visit: iShares.com/bitcoin

 

Risk Warnings

 

Capital at risk. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise and are not guaranteed. Investors may not get back the amount originally invested.

 

The price of bitcoin fluctuates daily and the value of bitcoin is driven by various factors including market liquidity. Cryptoassets can be subject to high pricing volatility and substantial fluctuations.

 

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of current or future results and should not be the sole factor of consideration when selecting a product or strategy.

 

Changes in the rates of exchange between currencies may cause the value of investments to diminish or increase. Fluctuation may be particularly marked in the case of a higher volatility fund and the value of an investment may fall suddenly and substantially. Levels and basis of taxation may change from time to time and depend on personal individual circumstances.

 

Regulatory Information

 

In the UK and Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries: this is issued by BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL, Tel: +44 (0)20 7743 3000. Registered in England and Wales No. 00796793. For your protection, calls are usually recorded. Please refer to the Financial Conduct Authority website for a list of authorised activities conducted by BlackRock.

 

Any research in this document has been procured and may have been acted on by BlackRock for its own purpose. The results of such research are being made available only incidentally. The views expressed do not constitute investment or any other advice and are subject to change. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any company in the BlackRock Group or any part thereof and no assurances are made as to their accuracy.

 

This document is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to anyone to invest in any BlackRock funds and has not been prepared in connection with any such offer.

 

© 2025 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights reserved. BLACKROCK, BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS and iSHARES are trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners