BlackRock’s Spot Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) Outperforms SPDR Gold Trust (GLD) in Year-to-Date Fund Inflows

The price of gold has surged almost 29% this year, significantly outpacing the 3.8% gain in bitcoin (BTC). Despite this, many investors are still keen on adding the largest cryptocurrency to their portfolios. BlackRock’s spot bitcoin ETF (IBIT) has seen a noteworthy inflow of $6.96 billion since the start of the year, making it the sixth-largest amount among all exchange-traded funds, according to data from Bloomberg’s senior ETF analyst, Eric Balchunas. Meanwhile, SPDR Gold Trust (GLD), the largest physically backed gold ETF, dropped to the seventh position on Monday with net inflows of $6.5 billion.

The strong performance of IBIT suggests that institutional investors maintain their confidence in bitcoin’s long-term prospects despite its recent price challenges. Gold’s rise to $3,384 is largely attributed to ongoing international trade disputes, renewed inflation concerns, and geopolitical tensions. Although BTC, often referred to as digital gold, reached a record high in January, it currently sits more than 10% below that peak.

“To attract more capital in this environment is a positive indicator for the long-term, reinforcing our belief that BTC ETFs will surpass gold’s assets under management in 3-5 years,” Balchunas shared on X.