Wall Street brings the Bitcoin versus Gold clash to ETF masses
The culture clash between Bitcoin enthusiasts and gold bugs is about to be played out in the world of exchange-traded funds.
Tidal Financial Group this week filed to launch a pair of long-short trades — pitting the world's biggest cryptocurrency against the shiny metal, and vice versa — offering investors a high-conviction bet on the best alternative hedge, in one fell swoop.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around
Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List
Undo
Packaged under the Battleshares brand, the novel exchange-traded funds would monetize the long-running debate about the ultimate store of value for those fearing everything from trade wars and geopolitical stresses to fiscal and monetary largesse. The ideological divide among the retail and institutional masses has raged since Bitcoin was born from the ashes of the 2008 crisis, and it comes just as both assets have surged over the past year on starkly different narratives.
Crypto Tracker
TOP COIN SETS
AI Tracker
23.58%
Buy
Smart Contract Tracker
21.41%
Buy
BTC 50 :: ETH 50
18.65%
Buy
Web3 Tracker
18.64%
Buy
Crypto Blue Chip - 5
13.33%
Buy
TOP COINS
(₹)
BNB
56,647 (
4.59%
)
Buy
XRP
203 (
1.29%
)
Buy
Ethereum
202,134 (
-0.02%
)
Buy
Tether
85 (
-0.03%
)
Buy
Bitcoin
8,855,507 (
-0.25%
)
Buy
The ETFs would, if launched, use a number of different tools to do so, including short sales of securities, swaps and options, according to paperwork submitted to the US Securities and Exchange Commission.
Did you Know?
The world of cryptocurrencies is very dynamic. Prices can go up or down in a matter of seconds. Thus, having reliable answers to such questions is crucial for investors.
View
Details
»
Battleshares declined to comment.
Live Events
'This is a kind of 'victory' for me,' said Dhaval Joshi, chief strategist at Counterpoint, who has long argued Bitcoin and gold belong to the same 'non-confiscatable' asset class — immune to inflation, capital controls, or seizure. 'Bitcoin will gradually grab market share from gold. So long BTC/short gold should trend higher over time, while short BTC/long gold will trend lower.'
Still, the zero-sum proposition has critics.
'It feels gimmicky and unnecessary,' said Brent Donnelly, president of Spectra FX Solutions. 'Most people bullish on Bitcoin are also bullish on gold. These ETFs just add friction to a trade investors could already make by pairing low-cost ETFs like IBIT and GLD,' referring to BlackRock Inc.'s spot Bitcoin ETF and State Street Corp.'s gold fund — both of which have extremely low fees.
This year, gold has notched successive records on haven demand as the trade war stoked fears over the safety of US assets, while Bitcoin plunged in the tariff-spurred turmoil in early April in sympathy with risky stocks. Now, as the White House seeks to ink trade agreements, Bitcoin has roared back in an era in which the US government is going all-in on digital finance.
'Bitcoin continues to trade as a risky asset, tracking Nasdaq very closely with a few exceptions,' said Donnelly. 'Gold is more of a 'Sell America' proxy these days.'
Regardless of the diverse storylines anchoring both assets, gold and crypto have been touted by wealth managers as diversifying assets that offer insurance against the risk of currency debasement and related cracks in the traditional financial order. These are grand claims and FOMO may be more to do with it. Investors have poured more than $14 billion into four major gold ETFs this year alone and $8 billion has been added to the four top Bitcoin ETFs.
Risk Appetite Endures
Battleshares, the upstart product manager, has been seeking to seize on the next evolution of pair trading. Thus far, it's only product is Battleshares TSLA vs F ETF (ticker ELON), a long position on Elon Musk's Tesla Inc. paired with a short position on Ford Motor Co., according to its website. Launched in February with a 1.29% expense ratio, the fund has barely nabbed $1 million in assets. The firm has since filed for a slew of such ETFs that seek to employ long-short bets including Coinbase Global Inc. versus Wells Fargo & Co. and Eli Lilly & Co. against Taco Bell-owner Yum! Brands Inc., among others. Battleshares isn't the first to test pair-trading strategies.
Increasingly, smaller firms and mainstream Wall Street issuers alike have flooded the market with typically higher-fee ETFs offering souped up securities and derivatives products this year with differing leverage and return profiles. Derivatives-based ETFs, a fast-expanding category that includes single-stock funds that offer juiced up or inverse returns on one company, have boomed since 2019 when US regulators eased constraints for launching new funds. Many of these are popular among the retail-trading crowd whose appetite for risk pushes them to the riskiest corners of the market on the promise of big payouts on volatile moves.
Still, risk appetite remains as markets staged a gravity-defying rebound last month. And this week, Bitcoin topped $100,000 on Thursday as gold declined following the Federal Reserve's decision to keep rates steady.
The tussle between the two may very well continue but to Charlie Morris of Bytetree Asset Management, Bitcoin should beat gold and take away the latter's market share long term.
'I believe Bitcoin and gold both benefit from this era of macroeconomic uncertainty, but at different times,' said the chief investment officer, whose firm runs BOLD, an exchange-traded product that allocates both to gold and Bitcoin. 'Gold tends to do better when there is geopolitical uncertainty, and Bitcoin when things are going well.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
32 minutes ago
- Time of India
AI in business, data analytics, wetland conservation debut as UG courses
Kolkata: Colleges and universities have introduced innovative courses and unique combinations for students to enhance their skills across various fields. With industry demands evolving rapidly, several institutions are embracing future-ready programs in data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence. In recent years, traditional core subjects like mathematics, chemistry, and physics saw declining enrolment numbers. However, new interdisciplinary combinations incorporating these fundamental sciences are gaining traction among undergraduate students, offering more practical and career-oriented pathways. St. Xavier's College introduced data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP), and business intelligence. P by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo rincipal Dominic Savio said, "Our program encourages students to explore and integrate knowledge across various domains. A strong focus is placed on creativity, critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical values. Students have the flexibility to design their academic paths by choosing from a diverse basket of courses, which include core courses, elective courses, and skill enhancement courses. We actively promote blended learning approaches and effective use of digital tools to support student engagement and learning outcomes." St. Xavier's College expanded its curriculum to include multidisciplinary courses spanning both arts and science streams, from wetlands conservation to sports management. The college emphasises holistic development through skill enhancement courses, value-added courses, and ability enhancement courses (AEC). St Xavier's University also introduced BSc in data analytics and statistics, which includes statistics, mathematics, and data science. Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced a comprehensive life science program that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology, reflecting the growing demand for specialised, industry-relevant education. Principal Swami Ekachittananda said, "This year we introduced life science for the first time, for which 10 seats have been allocated. Earlier, we didn't have a bio-science stream, but for the last few years, we received numerous feedback prompting us to introduce these subjects which have market demand at present. " The college has around 180-190 seats for undergraduate courses, which will be increased to accommodate new courses. Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, is offering data science as a minor subject for students. Principal Swami Kamalasthananda said, "This is an age where students need to be well-equipped and have clear knowledge of numerous contemporary subjects. In these cases, I observed several students taking advantage of online courses because they have limited time to get an overall idea of the subject. " Asutosh College in Kolkata introduced 25 contemporary certificate courses that include wildlife conservation and ecotourism, data management for social sciences, AI for office work, electronic product design, and analysis of pollutants in the environment for both in-house students and others. Principal Manas Kabi highlighted that these certificate courses have been introduced for students who are eager to enhance their skills in various fields. Graphic— St Xavier's College | Data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence St Xavier's University | BSc in data analytics and statistics Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced life science that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology
Time of India
42 minutes ago
- Time of India
Weekly Money Horoscope Predictions, June 22 to June 28, 2025: Your money luck for the week
This week brings financial insights for all zodiac signs. Aries should avoid impulsive spending. Taurus may face income fluctuations. Gemini could see a bonus but needs to save. Cancer must watch for unexpected expenses. Leo will experience financial stability. Virgo needs to be cautious with investments. Libra may find income through travel. Scorpio should research investments. Aries This week, financial clarity becomes a priority. You may be tempted to spend impulsively, but resisting that urge will serve you well. Guidance from someone experienced in money matters can help you manage resources more efficiently. If you've been planning to invest, wait until all the details are clear before committing. Taurus Finances may feel slightly unsteady this week. A reliable source of income could begin to fluctuate, urging you to reassess your financial plan. Budgeting wisely will help you avoid unnecessary stress. Unexpected expenses may arise, especially related to family or health, so leave room for flexibility. On the brighter side, expert advice or support from a close confidant can help you identify new opportunities. Gemini This is a productive time for money matters, especially if you've been working hard toward a specific goal. A raise, bonus, or freelance opportunity could provide the extra income you need. However, with extra cash may come the temptation to overspend. Keep a close eye on your budget and prioritise savings. If you're investing, lean toward low-risk, long-term options. Cancer This week, finances may require close attention. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo A sudden expense or minor emergency could catch you off guard, so keep a cushion in your budget. You may find yourself juggling between necessary spending and longer-term savings. Take a realistic look at where your money is going, small leaks could be affecting your financial health more than you realise. Leo You're likely to experience a boost in financial stability this week. Income from multiple sources or a financial breakthrough could give you breathing room. It's an ideal time to repay debts, reinvest in your goals, or build a buffer for the future. Resist the urge to make grand purchases for now, let the momentum grow. Virgo Financial decisions this week call for caution. You may be considering a major purchase or investment, but it's worth reviewing your options twice. If you've been overly generous with your finances recently, it's time to reassess your boundaries. Seek advice from someone you trust before signing any financial documents or committing to a venture. Libra Opportunities to improve your income may come through travel, relocation, or an online platform. Curb unnecessary spending, especially on luxuries or aesthetics. A shift in your financial mindset could be the turning point you need. If you've been putting off financial planning, now's the perfect time to get things in order. Scorpio It's a good week to be financially prudent. Investment opportunities may arise, but not all of them are as sound as they seem. Take time to research thoroughly before making any moves. You may also be tempted to splurge on a new gadget or luxury, but remember your long-term goals. Unexpected income or savings from an earlier decision could arrive as a surprise. Sagittarius Money matters look positive overall, though caution is still needed. A salary raise or bonus may be on the horizon, improving your financial comfort. However, don't rush into new financial commitments. Save before you spend, especially on travel or entertainment. This is a good week to revisit savings goals and check if your current plan aligns with your lifestyle. Capricorn This is a favourable period for professional growth, which naturally translates into better financial prospects. You may receive news of a promotion, bonus, or lucrative offer. This is a good time to plan for long-term investments or consider growing your business. However, don't allow success to cloud judgment, continue to approach finances with your usual discipline. Aquarius Financially, you're in a position to make wiser choices. You may need to manage an imbalance caused by past overspending, but with some planning, recovery is within reach. This is also a good time to explore passive income ideas or restructure your budget. Unexpected savings or delayed payments may show up, easing the pressure. Focus on clearing any debts or outstanding bills rather than adding new ones. Pisces This week brings a chance to enhance your financial well-being. A raise, bonus, or additional perks may come your way, especially if you've been showing initiative at work. Avoid making emotional spending decisions, especially on travel or experiences, and focus on future stability. If you're looking at property or large purchases, ensure everything is in order before you proceed. This article is written by, Sidhharrth S Kumaar, Registered Pharmacist, Astro Numerologist, Life & Relationship Coach, Vaastu Expert, IKS Expert, I Ching Expert, Energy Healer, Music Therapist, Author of 'Think like a Sage Lead like a CEO' series and Chief Astro Strategy Officer (CASO), NumroVani. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
44 minutes ago
- Time of India
Air India trims narrowbody flights after earlier reduction; check affected routes
Air India on Sunday announced a temporary reduction of less than 5% to its narrowbody flight operations, following an earlier 15% cut to its international services operated by widebody aircraft. Effective immediately until at least July 15, 2025, the Tata-owned airline will suspend operations on three routes and reduce frequencies on 19 domestic and short-haul international sectors. The move, which the Tata-owned air carrier described as voluntary, is aimed at enhancing network-wide operational stability and minimising last-minute disruptions for passengers. — airindia (@airindia) by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bank Owned Properties For Sale In Shahin Shakir (Prices May Surprise You) Foreclosed Homes | Search ads Search Now Undo Despite the cuts, Air India noted that it will continue to operate nearly 600 daily narrowbody flights across 120 domestic and regional international routes. Routes temporarily suspended until 15 July 2025: Bengaluru–Singapore (AI2392/2393) – 7x weekly Pune–Singapore (AI2111/2110) – 7x weekly Mumbai–Bagdogra (AI551/552) – 7x weekly Routes with reduced frequencies until 15 July 2025: Bengaluru–Chandigarh : 14x to 7x weekly Delhi–Bengaluru : 116x to 113x weekly Delhi–Mumbai : 176x to 165x weekly Delhi–Kolkata : 70x to 63x weekly Delhi–Coimbatore : 13x to 12x weekly Delhi–Goa (Dabolim) : 14x to 7x weekly Delhi–Goa (Mopa) : 14x to 7x weekly Delhi–Hyderabad : 84x to 76x weekly Delhi–Indore : 21x to 14x weekly Delhi–Lucknow : 28x to 21x weekly Delhi–Pune : 59x to 54x weekly Mumbai–Ahmedabad : 41x to 37x weekly Mumbai–Bengaluru : 91x to 84x weekly Mumbai–Kolkata : 42x to 30x weekly Mumbai–Coimbatore : 21x to 16x weekly Mumbai–Kochi : 40x to 34x weekly Mumbai–Goa (Dabolim) : 34x to 29x weekly Mumbai–Hyderabad : 63x to 59x weekly Mumbai–Varanasi : 12x to 7x weekly Meanwhile, the airline is offering options including re-accommodation on alternative flights, complimentary rescheduling, or full refunds, for passengers impacted by the move. Live Events 'We apologise to the passengers affected by these curtailments,' said the carrier said in a statement. 'We remain committed to restoring our full schedule as soon as practicable, while at all times prioritising the safety of our passengers, crew, and aircraft.' Moreover, the revised flight schedule is being made available on Air India's website ( ), mobile app, and contact centre, the statement said.
