Grayscale Brings New Twist To Spot Bitcoin ETF Marketing War Despite Outflows

Grayscale Investments has doubled down on its spot Bitcoin ETF marketing campaign with ads seen across major places in US
By Godfrey Benjamin
Updated January 23, 2024
Grayscale Appoints New CEO Amid Massive GBTC Outflows

The marketing competition between spot Bitcoin ETF issuers has reached a new level with Grayscale pushing out its offering on several media platforms including television and posters. Despite the rise in GBTC outflows, with the highest $640 million outflow yet on the 7th day, Grayscale is confident about its hidden approach.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Grayscale GBTC Ads Proliferates

Senior ETF analyst at Bloomberg Eric Balchunas acknowledged the marketing strategies that investment asset management firm Grayscale is adopting for its GBTC. 

According to his recent post, he pointed out that Grayscale has encroached “30th St Station in Philly” with posters and several media platforms, all marketing its Bitcoin ETF. In Balchunas’ opinion, this makes it quite hard to escape noticing the spot Bitcoin ETFs jingle.

An X user reacted to Balchuna’s post, confirming that he had also seen several GBTC ads at the airport in Atlanta. This underscores the fact that Grayscale is trying to be on top of its spot Bitcoin ETF marketing game and the reason for this advertising upgrade is not far-fetched.

Apart from the first trading day when Grayscale dominated the market with more than $4 billion in trading volumes, the asset management firm has seen significant outflows on its spot Bitcoin ETF. Several holders who had wanted to do away with their GBTC holdings for many years, began to dump them as soon as the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) greenlighted eleven spot Bitcoin ETF applications including that of Grayscale. 

As of the fifth trading day, Grayscale registered a major net outflow of nearly $580 million, although this time, almost all Bitcoin ETFs were bleeding. This huge outflow brought the firm’s GBTC outflows to about $2.2 billion. The Head of Research at CoinShares, James Butterfill, stated that the outflow of GBTC amounted to only $1 billion on day 5.

To get into a better position in general, Grayscale believes it’s spot Bitcoin ETF ads can make the difference.

Advertisement
Advertisement

High Fees in Spot Bitcoin ETF Products

It is worthy of note that Grayscale fees have also contributed to the massive outflows on its GBTC. Compared to all other spot Bitcoin ETF issuers, Grayscale has the highest fee pegged at 1.5% and the firm’s CEO Michael Sonnenshein recently defended the hefty fee in the midst of customers’ skepticism. 

He cited the firm’s impressive ten years track record, extensive market liquidity, and Grayscale’s specialized focus as a crypto specialist, thereby questioning the long-term commitment of the other Bitcoin ETF issuers to the asset class. In the meantime, the other issuers are trying to establish their positions in the market as well with high ranked commercials.

By the close of the sixth trading day, net fund inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs stood at $33.1 million, a proof that the ads are producing results.

GBTC saw over $640 million outflow on the 7th day. Outflows seem to continue increasing, “They’re picking up” said Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart. This is the largest outflow yet for GBTC.

Advertisement
Godfrey Benjamin
Benjamin Godfrey is a blockchain enthusiast and journalists who relish writing about the real life applications of blockchain technology and innovations to drive general acceptance and worldwide integration of the emerging technology. His desires to educate people about cryptocurrencies inspires his contributions to renowned blockchain based media and sites. Benjamin Godfrey is a lover of sports and agriculture. Follow him on X, Linkedin
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.