In the wake of the recent approval of the Bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund (ETF), cryptocurrency-related stocks are in the spotlight. Google Bard, an artificial intelligence platform by Alphabet, has highlighted three promising Bitcoin-related stocks for 2024.
Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN)
- Recognized as a leader in the US cryptocurrency exchange landscape.
- Boasts a well-established brand and a substantial user base.
- Diversified income sources include transaction fees, custody services, and subscription products.
- Google Bard sees strong growth potential with Bitcoin and the broader crypto market gaining traction.
- Cautioned investors about market volatility, regulatory uncertainties, recent earnings misses, and stock price drops.
- Currently facing a Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) lawsuit over unregistered securities listing.
- Coinbase's YTD performance is affected by concerns over profitability.
COIN one-month stock price chart. Source: ChartMill
MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ: MSTR)
- Stands out with a unique value proposition – significant Bitcoin holdings.
- Effectively a proxy for Bitcoin investment with almost 190,000 Bitcoin in its portfolio.
- Executive chairman Michael Saylor’s commitment to Bitcoin adds to the company’s appeal.
- Potential for substantial gains if Bitcoin experiences price appreciation.
- High-stakes strategy exposes investors to amplified Bitcoin price swings.
- Limited diversification in the business portfolio increases risk profile.
- MSTR stock experienced a 20% drop after the ETF approval, partly linked to the general stock market sell-off.
- YTD losses at 29%, valued at $485.53 as of January 15.
MSTR one-month stock price chart. Source: ChartMill
Riot Blockchain Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT)
- Recognized as a leader in Bitcoin mining, known for efficient operations and commitment to renewable energy.
- Successfully captured market share in the competitive mining landscape.
- Potential for growth lies in capitalizing on a rising Bitcoin price and growing demand for mining services.
- Not immune to challenges, including fluctuations in mining difficulty and electricity costs.
- Environmental concerns and regulatory uncertainties in the mining industry add complexity to the investment landscape.
- RIOT valued at $11.73 with YTD losses of 23% as of the latest update.
RIOT one-month stock price chart. Source: ChartMill
In conclusion, while these stocks show promise, they have faced a negative start to 2024, aligning with the overall crypto market sell-off. Investors should remain cautious due to market volatility, regulatory uncertainties, and specific challenges each company faces.