Osprey Seeks Merger with Bitcoin ETF Amid Plans to Dissolve

Osprey Bitcoin Trust, a prominent closed-end fund specializing in Bitcoin investments, intends to explore significant strategic changes, including a potential merger with a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) or a sale. This announcement comes as the Trust’s units have been trading at a discount compared to its actual Bitcoin holdings, prompting the company to consider various alternatives to enhance shareholder value. In a statement released on Tuesday, Osprey indicated that failing to secure a merger or sale would lead to the liquidation and dissolution of the Trust within the next 180 days.

Osprey Trust Sues Grayscale Over Bitcoin ETF Claims

Osprey’s strategy unfolds in an intensifying rivalry with Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust (GBTC), which recently transitioned into an ETF. Osprey has not shied away from this competition, having initiated legal action against Grayscale.

The lawsuit alleges that Grayscale made deceptive claims regarding the inevitability of its ETF conversion, highlighting the competitive stakes in attracting investment in the burgeoning cryptocurrency fund market. Osprey’s proactive stance signifies its determination to secure a favorable position within the industry amidst rapidly evolving regulatory and market conditions.

Regulatory Milestones and Market Innovation

In 2021, Osprey Funds took a significant step by registering its Bitcoin Trust (OBTC) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a reporting company. This move, aimed at enhancing transparency and liquidity, positioned Osprey as a pioneer among cryptocurrency investment vehicles seeking SEC recognition.

By reducing the mandatory holding period for OBTC shares and facilitating access for accredited and retail investors through over-the-counter (OTC) trading desks, Osprey mirrored strategies employed by market leader GBTC, underscoring the competitive dynamics influencing the sector. Osprey’s efforts to adapt and innovate reflect broader trends within the cryptocurrency investment space, where entities continually seek regulatory approval and investor confidence amid a landscape of volatility and regulatory scrutiny.

Read Also: Bitcoin Achieves All-Time High, Climbing Above $69K