According to Coincu, Vanguard Group Inc. has faced backlash from the crypto community for its refusal to offer Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on its trading platform. The asset management giant, with $8.6 trillion under management, has sparked the #BoycottVanguard movement on social media, with thousands vowing to withdraw funds. Despite the uproar, Vanguard remains steadfast in its conservative investment approach, prioritizing stocks and bonds over commodities, and has even removed Bitcoin-spot products and futures-backed Bitcoin funds from its platform.
While competitors like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Invesco have embraced Bitcoin ETFs, Vanguard's resistance has drawn criticism. However, industry expert Dave Nadig believes the #BoycottVanguard movement is unlikely to significantly impact the company. In fact, Vanguard Group has continued to thrive, with $4.4 billion flowing into its 84 ETFs in the past week alone, contributing to the $157 billion attracted in 2023. The company's 21-year consecutive growth in the $8 trillion ETF market positions it to challenge industry leader BlackRock.
Despite shunning crypto ETFs, Vanguard maintains a devoted following due to its low fees and unique corporate structure. While the rejection of crypto may pose a long-term risk, particularly with younger investors, the trust and goodwill built over the years make it unlikely to deter the influx of funds. Vanguard's resilience against crypto trends showcases its unwavering commitment to its established principles, cementing its status as a financial giant with enduring appeal.