Financial adviser Douglas Boneparth discusses Bitcoin ETFs, how he talks to clients about Bitcoin, the level of exposure to consider, and the comparison of crypto with gold. They also touch on Vanguard's decision on Bitcoin ETFs, the influence of Jamie Diamond and Larry Fink, the outsourcing of cryptocurrency storage, the potential growth of Bitcoin ETFs, and clients' reluctance to talk about Bitcoin with advisors.
Financial advisors prioritize financial planning and education for clients when considering Bitcoin ETFs, ensuring they understand the risks and are not solely focused on potential gains.
Bitcoin ETFs offer a convenient and familiar way for clients to gain exposure to Bitcoin within their portfolios, providing a solution for those hesitant to venture into self-custody or deal with complexity of crypto exchanges.
Deep dives
Advisors and Bitcoin ETFs
Financial advisors are considering Bitcoin ETFs for their clients' portfolios and have been having conversations about the potential benefits and risks. Some advisors have already made trades in Bitcoin ETFs, especially for younger clients who have expressed interest in cryptocurrencies. However, advisors prioritize financial planning and education for their clients, ensuring they understand the risks and are not solely focused on the potential gains that Bitcoin offers. The conversations around Bitcoin ETFs are often driven by client demand and the advisor's role in providing guidance and education.
The Appeal of Bitcoin ETFs for Advisors
Financial advisors see Bitcoin ETFs as an opportunity to cater to a broad range of clients, including those who are unfamiliar with cryptocurrencies but are interested in their potential. Bitcoin ETFs offer a convenient and familiar way for clients to gain exposure to Bitcoin within their portfolios. They also provide a solution for clients who are hesitant to venture into self-custody of cryptocurrencies or deal with the complexities of crypto exchanges. Advisors emphasize the importance of explaining the risks and volatility associated with Bitcoin to clients, particularly those with a more conservative investment approach.
Lessons from Early Bitcoin Adopters
Financial advisors who were early adopters of Bitcoin and experienced significant price fluctuations understand the long-term potential of the asset. They leverage their personal experiences to educate their clients about the risks and potential rewards. These advisors stress the importance of diversification within a portfolio and not allocating more than a certain percentage to Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. They emphasize the need to focus on financial planning and the overall goals of clients rather than solely on the performance of Bitcoin.
The Role of Financial Education
Financial advisors play a crucial role in educating their clients about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. They provide context and help clients navigate the complexities and volatility of the cryptocurrency market. Advisors focus on explaining the mechanisms and risks associated with Bitcoin, as well as offering comparisons to traditional asset classes like gold. By providing thorough financial education and guidance, advisors empower their clients to make informed decisions about incorporating Bitcoin ETFs into their portfolios.
The launch of the first-ever spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds has dominated the ETF conversation over the last few months. Issuers are jockeying for position in what’s fast-becoming a successful and ultra-competitive category. But who’s the target market for these products? What do advisers think of them? And how are they talking to their clients about them?
On this episode of Trillions, Joel and Eric speak with Douglas Boneparth, founder and president of Bone Fide Wealth. They discuss how he’s speaking with clients about Bitcoin, how he views the new ETFs, how much exposure to really consider and what they might displace in a portfolio. And then there’s how he thinks crypto compares with gold.