Institutional interest in Bitcoin continues to rise as new regulatory filings reveal major investment players increasing their exposure to BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETF, the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT).
Mubadala and Citadel Expand Bitcoin Holdings
Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, Mubadala Investment Company, has significantly increased its stake in IBIT. As of March 31, Mubadala holds 8.7 million shares valued at $408 million, up from 8.2 million shares at the end of 2024. This move marks a strong vote of confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term potential from one of the Middle East’s largest institutional investors.
Citadel Advisors, led by billionaire Ken Griffin, also made a notable move. The firm more than tripled its IBIT holdings to over 3 million shares, worth approximately $147 million—up from just 1 million shares in December. Beyond the direct share investment, Citadel disclosed $676 million in call options and $366 million in put options tied to IBIT, indicating a sophisticated and sizable exposure to the ETF.
More Institutions Backing Bitcoin Through IBIT
Citadel and Mubadala aren’t alone. Other financial heavyweights are also aligning with Bitcoin through IBIT. Goldman Sachs, the Avenir Group, and Millennium Management have all maintained or increased their positions. Notably, Millennium Management remains one of the largest holders with 17.5 million shares valued at $823 million.
Although some institutions like the State of Wisconsin Investment Board have reduced or exited their positions, the overall trend points toward growing institutional confidence in Bitcoin. As more regulated, accessible investment vehicles like IBIT become available, it’s clear that traditional finance is warming up to crypto in a big way.
These developments suggest a maturing crypto market where institutional players are no longer just testing the waters—they’re diving in.
