Short Bitcoin (BTC) ETF Hits Over 2-Mth High As Market Slumps

Ambar Warrick
May 7, 2022
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CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal 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.
BTC recovers from 2020 lows

An exchange-traded product that shorts Bitcoin (BTC) hit an over two-month high on Friday, as the world’s largest crypto led a sharp decline in the market.

The 21Shares Short Bitcoin ETP, which trades exactly opposite to BTC, jumped 5.4% in the past two days to its highest level since late-February. This followed a 11% slump in BTC over the same period, which saw the token hit its lowest level since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war.

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Short BTC ETP surges in value this year

The short BTC ETP, which trades on European stock exchanges, is one of the best performing assets this year. The ETP is currently trading up nearly 8% for the year, far better than returns offered by most of the top-50 cryptocurrencies.

21Shares describes the ETP as seeking to provide a “-1x return to the performance of Bitcoin for a single day.” The ETP achieves this by borrowing BTC and simultaneously selling it.

But the product is also billed as high risk by the asset manager. 21Shares recommends the product only for investors willing to take on the risk of such an endeavor.

21Shares offers a slew of ETPs tracking different cryptocurrencies. The fund manager recently launched a product that hedges both BTC and Gold in one product.

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Bitcoin short interest hits near 2-mth high

A Bitfinex index that tracks short interest in BTC shows that bearish positions on the token are at their highest since mid-March. The reading comes on the heels of one of BTC’s worst tumbles this year.

The token is now trading near its lowest levels this year, between $35,000 to $36,000. Traders are anticipating further losses in the token, as inflation and monetary tightening fears show little signs of easing.

The U.S. Federal Reserve hiked interest rates this week, as did central banks in the UK, Australia, and India. Several more banks have flagged tightening measures to combat a recent surge in inflation.

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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.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal 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.

About Author
About Author
With more than five years of experience covering global financial markets, Ambar intends to leverage this knowledge towards the rapidly expanding world of crypto and DeFi. His interest lies chiefly in finding how geopolitical developments can impact crypto markets, and what that could mean for your bitcoin holdings. When he isn't trawling through the web for the latest breaking news, you can find him playing videogames or watching Seinfeld reruns. You can reach him at [email protected]
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.