This FAQ covers the most common questions about Fidelity's crypto ETF offerings, including their Bitcoin and Ethereum funds, how they work, and how they compare to other investment options. Whether you're a new or experienced investor, this guide provides clear, factual answers to help you understand Fidelity's role in the crypto ETF space.

What is the Fidelity Bitcoin ETF?

The Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) is a spot Bitcoin ETF that directly holds Bitcoin, allowing investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency through a traditional brokerage account. Launched in January 2024, FBTC is one of the first spot Bitcoin ETFs approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It tracks the price of Bitcoin by holding actual BTC, rather than futures contracts, providing a more direct correlation to the underlying asset. Investors can buy and sell shares of FBTC during regular market hours, just like any other stock. This structure makes it a convenient and regulated way to add Bitcoin to your portfolio without the complexities of self-custody or crypto exchange accounts.

Fidelity is known for its low expense ratio and strong institutional backing, making FBTC a popular choice among both retail and institutional investors. As of 2026, FBTC has accumulated billions in assets under management, reflecting strong demand.

Does Fidelity offer an Ethereum ETF?

Yes, Fidelity offers a spot Ethereum ETF, the Fidelity Ethereum Fund (FETH), which began trading in July 2024. FETH directly holds Ethereum (ETH) and provides investors with a regulated way to gain exposure to the second-largest cryptocurrency. Similar to FBTC, FETH trades on a major stock exchange and can be bought and sold during standard market hours. The fund is designed to track the price of Ethereum, offering a simple and secure investment vehicle for those who want to invest in ETH without dealing with the technical aspects of wallets and private keys. Fidelity's Ethereum ETF has also gained significant traction, with substantial inflows since its launch.

FETH is an important addition for investors seeking diversified crypto exposure through a trusted financial institution. As of 2026, it remains one of the leading spot Ethereum ETFs by market share.

How does a Fidelity crypto ETF work?

A Fidelity crypto ETF, such as FBTC or FETH, works by holding the actual cryptocurrency (Bitcoin or Ethereum) in a secure custodian and issuing shares that represent fractional ownership of that crypto. When you buy shares of the ETF, you are indirectly owning a portion of the underlying digital assets. The ETF's net asset value (NAV) is calculated based on the current market price of the held cryptocurrency, and shares trade on the stock exchange throughout the day. This structure allows investors to gain crypto exposure through a traditional brokerage account, with the convenience of stock-like trading, liquidity, and regulatory oversight. Fidelity uses institutional-grade custody solutions to safeguard the assets, reducing the risk of theft or loss that can be associated with holding crypto directly.

This mechanism provides a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto world, making it accessible to a broader range of investors. Additionally, ETFs can be held in tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs, which is a significant benefit.

What are the fees for Fidelity's crypto ETFs?

Fidelity's crypto ETFs are known for their competitive fee structures, with an expense ratio of 0.25% for both FBTC and FETH. This means that for every $10,000 invested, you pay $25 annually in fees. Notably, Fidelity has temporarily waived fees for certain promotional periods, making them even more attractive. For example, FBTC had its fee waived entirely for the first few months after launch, and similar promotions may apply to FETH. These low fees are among the lowest in the industry, positioning Fidelity as a cost-effective option for crypto ETF investors. It's important to compare these fees with other providers, such as BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) or Grayscale's converted funds, which may have higher expense ratios.

When considering an ETF, always review the prospectus for the latest fee schedule and any changes. Low fees can significantly impact long-term returns, so Fidelity's pricing is a major advantage.

How do I buy a Fidelity crypto ETF?

To buy a Fidelity crypto ETF, you need a brokerage account, and then you can purchase shares just like any other stock or ETF. If you already have an account with Fidelity or another broker, you can search for the ticker symbol (e.g., FBTC for Bitcoin, FETH for Ethereum) and place a buy order. If you don't have an account, you'll need to open one, which typically involves providing personal information and funding the account. Once your account is funded, you can place a market or limit order during trading hours. It's important to note that crypto ETFs are available to all investors, including those with retirement accounts like IRAs, making them a versatile investment tool. You can also set up recurring investments to dollar-cost average into your crypto exposure.

Always ensure your broker supports trading of these specific ETFs, as some platforms may have restrictions. Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and Vanguard all offer these ETFs, but it's wise to check for any trading commissions.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Fidelity's crypto ETFs?

Fidelity's crypto ETFs offer several key advantages, including low fees, direct exposure to the underlying cryptocurrency, and the security of a reputable financial institution. They provide a regulated and liquid way to invest in crypto without the hassle of managing digital wallets or private keys. Additionally, they can be held in tax-advantaged accounts, and they offer the flexibility of trading during market hours. However, there are also disadvantages to consider. For instance, ETFs trade at market prices that can deviate from the NAV, potentially leading to premiums or discounts. Also, the fund's performance is tied to the volatile crypto market, which can be risky. Additionally, some investors may prefer to hold the actual cryptocurrency to have full control, and ETFs introduce counterparty risk, though this is mitigated by Fidelity's custody arrangements.

It's also worth noting that crypto ETFs are relatively new, and their long-term performance and regulatory environment are still evolving. Investors should weigh these pros and cons based on their individual risk tolerance and investment goals.

How does Fidelity's crypto ETF compare to buying crypto directly?

Buying a Fidelity crypto ETF is significantly different from buying cryptocurrency directly, and each approach has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. When you buy an ETF, you are purchasing shares that represent ownership in the fund, which holds the actual crypto. This means you don't have to worry about private keys, wallets, or exchange security. ETFs also offer regulatory oversight, liquidity, and the ability to trade during market hours. On the other hand, buying crypto directly gives you full ownership and control, allowing you to use it for transactions, staking, or other purposes. However, direct ownership requires managing your own security, which can be daunting for some. Additionally, direct crypto purchases may be subject to higher fees and volatility in exchange platforms.

For most investors, especially those looking for a simple and secure way to gain exposure, ETFs are more convenient. But for those who want to actively use cryptocurrency, direct ownership is necessary. Your choice depends on your investment strategy and comfort level with the technology.

What is the future outlook for Fidelity's crypto ETFs in 2026?

The future outlook for Fidelity's crypto ETFs in 2026 is generally positive, driven by increasing institutional adoption and growing investor demand for regulated crypto products. As of 2026, the SEC has approved multiple spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, and Fidelity has established itself as a leading provider with significant assets under management. The market has matured, and these ETFs are now considered mainstream investment vehicles. Analysts expect continued growth, with potential for new crypto ETFs, such as those tracking other cryptocurrencies or diversified portfolios. However, the landscape is subject to regulatory changes and market volatility. Fidelity's strong brand and low fees position it well to capture market share. It's also possible that the SEC could approve additional crypto ETFs, such as those for Solana or XRP, which would expand the options for investors.

While past performance is not indicative of future results, the trajectory suggests that Fidelity's crypto ETFs will remain a popular choice for both retail and institutional investors. Keeping an eye on regulatory developments and market trends is essential for anyone considering an investment.

Final Thoughts

Fidelity's crypto ETFs have transformed how investors can access Bitcoin and Ethereum, offering a secure, regulated, and cost-effective way to participate in the cryptocurrency market. With low fees and the backing of a trusted financial institution, they have become a cornerstone of many investment portfolios. However, it's crucial to remember that cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, and ETFs are not risk-free. Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and investment objectives before committing capital.

As the crypto ETF landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about regulatory changes and new product offerings is key. Fidelity's commitment to innovation and investor education makes it a valuable resource for those navigating this exciting asset class. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, Fidelity's crypto ETFs provide a straightforward path to digital asset exposure.